Which statement regarding a keylogger is NOT true?
a. Keyloggers can be used to capture passwords, credit card numbers, or personal information.
b. Software keyloggers are generally easy to detect.
c. Hardware keyloggers are installed between the keyboard connector and computer keyboard USB port.
d. Software keyloggers can be designed to send captured information automatically back to the attacker through the Internet.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: b. Software keyloggers are generally easy to detect.
Explanation (300 words)
Keyloggers are tools designed to record keystrokes made on a computer or mobile device, often for malicious purposes such as stealing sensitive information. They can be implemented as software or hardware. Here’s an explanation of why option b is not true, along with the validity of the other options:
- Option a: True.
Keyloggers are widely used by attackers to capture sensitive data like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal information. Once this data is recorded, it can be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or unauthorized access to accounts. - Option b: False.
Software keyloggers are not generally easy to detect. They often operate in stealth mode, hiding their presence from the user. They may disguise themselves as legitimate processes, embed into the operating system, or use advanced techniques to avoid detection by antivirus software. Detection requires specialized tools or manual examination of system processes, making them difficult for average users to identify. - Option c: True.
Hardware keyloggers are physical devices installed between the keyboard connector and the computer’s USB port. They intercept and log keystrokes as they pass from the keyboard to the computer. While they are effective, they require physical access to the computer for installation, which limits their usage compared to software keyloggers. - Option d: True.
Software keyloggers can be programmed to send the captured information automatically to an attacker via email, FTP, or other online methods. This feature makes them particularly dangerous, as they can operate remotely and provide real-time data to cybercriminals.
In conclusion, while all the other statements accurately describe the functionality of keyloggers, software keyloggers are specifically challenging to detect, making option b the incorrect statement.