Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: What exactly is keylogger software, and how can we avoid this type of security breach with our computer systems?

Texas Subscriber

Answer: Keylogger software is a type of malware that a user may inadvertently download onto your computer system, allowing hackers to monitor online activity and usurp private information. The software records the keystrokes that a device user hits, and puts that information to nefarious use.

Hackers may enter your system through the following means:

• When you download an email attachment with a virus;
• When you click on a malicious popup; and
• When you surf the net and visit an infected website.

The primary problem is that the malware is usually added without the user even knowing. But once the hackers have access to your system, they can cause all sorts of trouble for you and your organization.

Best bet: Alert staff to these potential modes of entry, and train individuals to avoid these scenarios and report anything suspicious, for instance, if they open an email attachment that they initially think is from a valid sender. Also, protect your system with up-to-date virus software.