Keyboards are an essential part of personal computers that people use to type all kinds of sensitive information. That leaves reason to wonder: can keyboards be hacked?
In a way, yes. But there are countermeasures you can deploy and steps you on take to avoid getting hacked altogether.
How Keyboards Get Hacked
Keyboard hacking means that a malicious attacker monitors or manipulates someone else’s keyboard input. Such an attack may lead to the secret capture of user-written information and its use for malicious purposes. There are several types of keyboard hacking, but the most common are:
What Are Physical Access Attacks?
Physical access attacks refer to unauthorized attempts to gain control of a computing device by directly manipulating its hardware components. One of these attacks involves the manipulation of keyboards.
For such an attack vector, an attacker could insert some hardware implants into your keyboard. The attacker then tries to steal your password combinations by capturing keystrokes on your keyboard and forwarding them to an external receiver. These implants can often be difficult to detect and match the appearance of the keyboard.
Physical access attacks on keyboards can exploit keyboard manipulation as well as other input device-related vulnerabilities. For example, attackers could try to manipulate USB ports or connectors exchanged between the keyboard and the computer. By changing the USB connection, attackers can manipulate the data transmission process, inject malicious commands, or obtain sensitive information.
Keyloggers and Malware
Attackers don’t just have to resort to physical methods when they want to hijack a keyboard. Malware related to your keyboard driver or located directly on your hardware can be involved in carrying information to the attacker. One of the best examples of this is keyloggers.
A keylogger is often a type of malware that instantly transmits all the keys you press on your keyboard to the attacker (that said, some employers use keyloggers on company computers to monitor employees, so not all keyboggers are malware). This is a very dangerous attack method, as all key combinations will reach the attacker, no matter how hard and strong your password is.
How Wireless Keyboards Are Vulnerable
Wireless keyboards have emerged as a popular alternative to their wired counterparts due to their increased mobility and simplified setup. These keyboards utilize radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth technology to establish a connection with the host device, making typing a breeze. There aremany great wireless keyboard models to choose from, but know that this convenience comes with inherent security risks.
Network attacks on wireless keyboards occur when an unauthorized individual intercepts the signals transmitted between the keyboard and its receiver. By eavesdropping on these signals, attackers can gain access to sensitive information, including keystrokes, passwords, and other confidential data. The potential consequences of such attacks can be severe, ranging from identity theft to financial fraud.
How to Prevent Keyboard Hacking
Protecting ourselves from keyboard hacking requires a proactive approach. Although there are powerful attack methods for your keyboard, there are also measures to help protect you from these attacks.
Apply Regular Software Updates
Keeping keyboard drivers and security software up to date is crucial in maintaining a robust defense against keyboard hack attacks. By regularly installing the latest updates provided by keyboard manufacturers and security software providers, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to hacking attempts.
Keyboard drivers act as the interface between the physical keyboard and the operating system, ensuring smooth communication and functionality. Outdated or vulnerable keyboard drivers can provide an entry point for hackers to exploit and gain unauthorized access to the system. It is essential to regularly check for driver updates from the manufacturer’s website or utilize automated update tools.
In addition to keyboard drivers, keeping security software up to date is equally important. Antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall software are designed to detect and mitigate potential threats, including keyboard hack attacks. Developers continuously release updates to stay ahead of evolving hacking techniques and to provide enhanced protection. By promptly installing these updates, users ensure that their security software is equipped with the latest defense mechanisms, reducing the likelihood of successful hacking attempts.
Ensure Physical Security
When your computer is not in use, it is highly recommended to lock or securely hide the keyboard. This serves as a deterrent against physical attacks and unauthorized access. Locking the keyboard could involve using a computer lock or cable to secure it to a fixed object, preventing anyone from tampering with it. Alternatively, you can store the keyboard in a locked drawer or cabinet, ensuring it is out of sight and reach of potential intruders.
Physical security measures are particularly important in shared environments, such as offices or public spaces. Even if you trust your colleagues or those around you, it is still essential to take precautions. Leaving your keyboard unattended and easily accessible can leave it vulnerable to unauthorized use or malicious actions.
Secure Wireless Keyboard Connections
For people utilizing wireless keyboards, securing the connection is of utmost importance. Employing a robust encryption protocol is crucial to safeguard the transmitted data. It is advisable to choose a wireless keyboard that supports a secure encryption standard such asAdvanced Encryption Standard (AES). Additionally, users should exercise caution when connecting to any wireless network, ensuring it is secure and trustworthy.
Recovering From a Keyboard Hack Attack
Recovering from a keyboard hack attack begins with acknowledging the breach and taking immediate action. Disconnecting the compromised keyboard from the internet or any connected device is vital to sever the intruder’s access and limit potential damage. Informing relevant parties, such as friends, family, or IT departments, ensures a coordinated response.
To bolster security, changing passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is crucial. Strong, unique passwords combined with 2FA add an extra layer of protection. Running antivirus scans on all connected devices, updating software, and strengthening overall cybersecurity measures further fortify one’s digital environment. Finally, sharing knowledge and experiences with others helps raise awareness and contributes to a more vigilant digital community.
