A keylogger is a piece of code, installed usually without the user’s knowledge or permission, that tracks what keys are pressed. By doing that, the keylogger can gain access to personal data such as usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information. Is there an easy way to check a Mac for Spyware, Keylogger and Virus. Discussion in 'Mac Basics and Help' started by petalino, Jan 5, 2016.

Protecting Your Mac From Keyloggers How to Protect Your Mac From Keyloggers Definition of Mac Keyloggers The term 'keylogger' refers to a program used by criminals to steal your information. Keyloggers are normally installed as a Trojan horse, working by quietly recording everything you type, including your online accounts, account numbers, banking information, passwords, PIN's, and credit card information. The keylogger then sends all of this information to the criminal who sent it to you. This criminal can then use YOUR information to drain your bank accounts, commit fraud using your account, and even steal your identity. Your stolen identity is then used to open new credit cards, mortgage houses and even sell YOUR assets! This criminal has not only left you with piles of bills that you are now responsible for (or responsible for fighting!), but has also ruined your credit rating. Keyloggers are well known in the Windows world.

However, the keylogger industry is not limited to the Windows world. Many Macintosh experts say that there is no need to worry, but a quick Google search for should have you worried. This website emphasizes Keyloggers and their dangers, while showing you how to create a multilevel defense plan to protect you, your identity and your Mac. Keylogger Defenses There are several mechanisms available to you to fight off keyloggers.

Each of these defenses is explained, and expanded on, in the following sections. • PREVENT installation. • DETECT infection. • AVOID typing sensitive information.

• PREVENT 'phoning home'. There is no single magic bullet - criminals are always using more that one technique and so should you! Prevent Keylogger Installation The first line of defense should always be prevention. Most keyloggers are spread through viruses and worms, so it is important that you take precautions to make sure you don't get infected.

Of course the Macintosh platform is remarkably resilient against viruses and it is tempting to let yourself become more relaxed. However, the Mac's popularity has increased significantly lately and criminals have been taking notice. You need to constantly keep your Mac software up-to-date, as Keylogger viruses usually exploit known vulnerabilities in the operating system (OS X). Also, you should be sure to enable your firewall.

Other keyloggers can be installed locally using a USB key. The thief installs the USB key and then removes it along with the recorded data.

You must therefore always be aware of who has access to your machine and what is plugged into it, whether it is your personal machine, or your work machine. Detect Keylogger Installation Detecting that a keylogger has leached itself to your Mac is critical if you ever expect to remove it. Keyloggers and similar Trojans usually attach themselves by modifying your system settings. Allows you to determine when any potential malware has installed itself by telling you when key OS X configuration files are updated. Sadly, setting up TripWire is not like your typical Mac application, and using it is not for the faint of heart.

You should frequently review all the programs that are running on your machine. If you see anything unfamiliar, simply perform a Google search for that program. More often than not it will be something that you want to keep running, but there is the possibility it might be a keylogger or other trojan. Spyware detection tools like antivirus software have been marketed as the solution to all malware, including keyloggers. While they can be effective at detecting known threats, they are not 100% effective.

It is free and user-friendly. Best email programs for mac. This app is straight to the point app. Cloud Magic is an email client popular for iOS. The User Interface has a transparent nature with the absence of fancy and irrelevant buttons.