What is a keystroke logger?
A keystroke logger is a piece of software, that captures keystrokes of a user while they are typing on their PC, there are many definitions for KeyStroke loggers, and what they do, but type 'what is a keystroke logger?' into google, and you wil most likely come up with this sort of answer;

'A program or hardware device that captures every key depression on the computer. Also known as "Keystroke Cops," they are used to monitor an employee's activities by recording every keystroke the user makes, including typos, backspacing and retyping.'

Keystroke logging can be achieved by both hardware and software means.
Commercially available systems include devices which are attached to the keyboard cable (and thus are instantly installable, but visible if the user makes a thorough inspection) and also devices which can be installed in keyboards (and are thus invisible, but require some basic knowledge of soldering to install).

Sometimes keystroke loogging programs can be installed via trojan horses, that may have been recieved in an email, or you may have downloaded it from the internet without knowing about it.

How do i stop a trojan horse installing a keystroke logging program on my PC?
There is no easy way to prevent keylogging software being installed on your PC, as it is usually done by a method of stealth.

The best strategy is to use the common sense and a combination of several methods, including observing the programs which are installed, being aware of devices connected to USB ports, and enabling firewalls.

If you are using a home PC, then it is likely to be free on any keystroke logging hardware (but remeber there may be keystroke logging software), but on public PCs, it is advised that you are a little more careful.

Try and avoid typing private details on public PCs, and always try and avoid visitng sites on public PCs that require you to enter your login details, e.g. An online banking account.

And before you enter you banking details, or any important passwords, delete your internet cookies and temporary internet files, as there maybe some that have the ability to track your personal information and what you type.

It is sometimes said that an on-screen keyboard is a way to combat keystroke loggers, as it only requires clicks of the mouse. However, this is not true, because a keyboard event message must be sent to the external target program to type text. Every software keylogger can log the text typed with an on-screen keyboard.

Not all bad;
Although, alot of the time, keystroke loggers, or keycatchers can be misused, and used for unlawful purposes, they are are still useful pieces of software, that can actually help improve PC security.
For example, you could install Keystroke logging software on your PC, to keep an eye on the people using your PC;
It is not always possible to keep a track on you children while they are using the PC, and you can't always be watching over their shoulder, making sure they are okay, and not doing things they shouldn't.

As kids become more intelligent, they are learning how to remove evidence of what websites they are visitng, and what they ahve been doing on your home PC, making i harder for parents to keep track of what they are up to.
But, by using a keystroke logger, we can bypass all these problems and worries.

That is the main aim of Type Safe a piece of keystroke software from Gigaware™ that ais easily installed on the PC, and allows you to watch what people on your computer are doing.

This is means that you can see what websites are being visited, what instant message conversations they are having, what emails they are sending, and other keyboard related tasks.

Type Safe is easy to use, has a simple interface, unlimited support, and is password protected, so only you can use it, and control when it logs keystrokes, and when in doesn't.

Gigaware™ Security Center