Keylogger Defeat: Tools & Techniques

TL;DR

Yes, tools can help mask your keystrokes from keyloggers. This guide explains how they work and provides practical steps to protect yourself, ranging from simple software solutions to more advanced techniques.

Understanding the Problem

Keyloggers record what you type on your keyboard. They’re often bundled with malware but can also be legitimately used for monitoring (with consent!). The tools we’ll look at aim to send incorrect or misleading information to the keylogger, protecting your real data.

Solution: Tools and Techniques

1. Anti-Keylogging Software: These programs are designed specifically to detect and block keyloggers. They often use a combination of techniques.
   • Real-time Scanning: Continuously monitors for suspicious activity.
   • Virtual Keyboards: Allow you to type without using the physical keyboard, making it harder for keyloggers to capture input.
   • Encryption: Encrypts your keystrokes before they are sent to applications.

   Examples include Zemana AntiLogger and KeyScrambler (paid options). Free antivirus software often includes basic keylogger protection.

2. Virtual Keyboard Usage: A simple but effective method.
   • Windows On-Screen Keyboard: Built into Windows. Search for ‘osk’ in the Start Menu to find it.
   • Browser Extensions: Some browsers offer virtual keyboard extensions.

   Use these when entering sensitive information like passwords or bank details.

3. Password Managers: Password managers auto-fill your credentials.
   • Keyloggers capture the password manager’s input, not your actual password.
   • Good password managers use encryption and other security measures.

   Popular options include LastPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden.

4. Character Masking Tools: These tools insert random characters between your keystrokes.
   • Keylogger Blocker (Free): A basic tool that inserts junk characters. Be aware these can sometimes cause issues with form submissions if not configured correctly.
   • AutoHotKey (Advanced): A scripting language for Windows allowing custom key remapping and masking. This requires some technical knowledge.

     ; Example AutoHotKey script to insert a random character after each keystroke
     #Persistent
     #SingleInstance force
     
     ~*vk*::
     {
       SendInput %A_ThisHotkey%
       Random, randNum, 1, 9
       SendInput %randNum%
       return
     }
     

5. Secure Input Fields (HTTPS): Always use websites with HTTPS.
   • HTTPS encrypts the data transmitted between your browser and the website.
   • Keyloggers can still capture keystrokes *before* encryption, but they won’t see the encrypted data sent over the network.
6. Regular Malware Scans: Keyloggers are often bundled with other malware.
   • Use a reputable antivirus program and keep it updated.
   • Run full system scans regularly.
7. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of security.
   • Even if a keylogger captures your password, the attacker will also need a code from your phone or authenticator app.
   • Enable 2FA wherever possible.

Important Considerations

No tool is foolproof. A sophisticated cyber security attack can bypass many protections. Combining multiple techniques provides the best defence.