What Are Keyloggers? – How To Detect Them And Everything You Need To Know

Keylogging refers to the act of recording and monitoring keystrokes made on a device, while keyloggers are the tools or software used to carry out this activity. While there are legitimate uses for keyloggers, such as parental monitoring or employee productivity tracking, they can also be exploited for malicious purposes. In the wrong hands, keyloggers can pose a significant threat to cybersecurity, as they can capture sensitive information, including passwords, credit card details, and personal messages.

What Is Keyloggers

Keyloggers are software programs or hardware devices designed to secretly record every keystroke made on a computer or mobile device. They operate in the background, capturing and storing the keystrokes, which can later be accessed by the attacker. This allows them to gather sensitive information without the user’s knowledge or consent.

Keyloggers can be categorized into two types: software-based and hardware-based. Software-based keyloggers are typically installed as malicious programs or malware on a victim’s device, often through phishing emails, infected downloads, or compromised websites. On the other hand, hardware-based keyloggers are physical devices that are attached to the victim’s computer or keyboard, intercepting and recording keystrokes.

Information Captured by Keyloggers:

Keyloggers are designed to capture and record every keystroke made on a device, allowing hackers or malicious users to access sensitive information. Here are some types of information that can be captured by keyloggers:

1. Passwords and Login Credentials: Keyloggers can record passwords and login credentials entered by the user, giving hackers access to personal accounts, such as email, social media, or online banking.

2. Credit Card and Financial Information: Keyloggers can capture credit card numbers, banking details, and other financial information entered during online transactions, making it easier for attackers to carry out fraudulent activities.

3. Personal Messages and Emails: Keyloggers can record personal messages, emails, and other typed communications, compromising privacy and potentially exposing sensitive information.

4. URLs and Website Visits: Keyloggers can track the websites visited by the user, including URLs and search queries, providing insight into the user’s online activities and interests.

5. Social Security Numbers and Personal Identifiers: Keyloggers can capture personal identification numbers, social security numbers, and other sensitive personal information, which can be used for identity theft or fraud.

6. Keystroke Patterns and Behavior: Keyloggers can analyze keystroke patterns and behavior to identify specific activities or sensitive information. For example, they can detect patterns associated with typing credit card numbers or entering login credentials.

7. Screenshots and Screen Recordings: Some keyloggers, known as screen recorders, can capture screenshots or record the user’s entire screen at random intervals. This allows attackers to visually monitor the user’s activities and potentially capture additional sensitive information.

Danger Of Keystroke Loggers

The danger of keystroke loggers lies in the potential exploitation of personal information by malicious users. While keyloggers themselves do not typically cause direct damage to a computer or operating system, they can enable cybercriminals to carry out various harmful activities. Here are some examples that illustrate the risks associated with keylogger attacks:

1. Credit Card Fraud: Hackers who gain access to credit card information through keyloggers can make unauthorized purchases, leading to financial loss and potential identity theft.

2. Email Account Compromise: Malicious users can log into your email accounts using captured login credentials, allowing them to steal sensitive information or carry out scams targeting your contacts.

3. Bank Account Breach: If hackers obtain your banking login credentials through keyloggers, they can gain unauthorized access to your bank accounts and carry out fraudulent transactions, potentially resulting in significant financial loss.

4. Corporate Espionage: Keyloggers can be used by cybercriminals to infiltrate company networks and steal confidential information, such as trade secrets, financial data, or customer information. This can lead to severe financial and reputational damage for businesses.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) highlights the prevalence of cyber threats and the role of keyloggers in various criminal activities. Business email compromise is a common threat where cybercriminals use keyloggers to gather information and carry out sophisticated attacks. They may impersonate known contacts, manipulate invoices, and trick individuals into making payments to fraudulent accounts.

Cybercriminals often use keyloggers to gather personal and business information, enabling them to craft targeted social engineering attacks. By leveraging captured data, they can gain the victim’s trust and increase the success rate of their fraudulent activities.

Is Keyloggers a Virus?

Keyloggers can be classified as a type of malware, but it is important to note that not all keyloggers are illegal or malicious. The legality and ethical use of keyloggers depend on the context and ownership of the device being monitored.

In certain cases, keyloggers are used by organizations, such as corporations or parents, for legitimate purposes like troubleshooting technical issues or monitoring the activities of employees or children. If the device being monitored is owned by the organization or individual installing the keylogger, and proper consent and legal requirements are met, then its use can be considered legal and within ethical boundaries. There are commercially available keyloggers that cater to these specific use cases.

However, the concern arises when keyloggers are used by malicious actors who do not own the device they infect. In such cases, the keylogger operates covertly, without the user’s knowledge or consent. It can capture sensitive information like passwords, screen captures, web browsing history, emails, and financial data, and transmit this data to a remote server controlled by the attacker. This stolen information can be used for criminal purposes or sold to third parties.

Uses Of Keyloggers

The uses of keyloggers can vary depending on the legal and ethical context in which they are implemented. Here are the different categories of keylogger uses:

1. Legal and Consensual Uses

In certain cases, keyloggers can be used legally and with the explicit consent of the individuals being monitored. Some examples include:

IT Troubleshooting: Keyloggers can be used by IT professionals to diagnose and resolve technical issues by collecting information on user problems.
Product Development: Keyloggers may be utilized by software or hardware developers to gather user feedback and improve their products.
Business Server Monitoring: Keyloggers can be employed to monitor web servers for unauthorized user activity and potential security breaches.
Employee Surveillance: Employers may use keyloggers to supervise the use of company-owned devices and ensure compliance with company policies during work hours.

2. Legal but Ethically Ambiguous Uses

These uses fall within the bounds of the law but may raise ethical concerns due to the lack of explicit consent or privacy invasion. Examples include:

Parental Supervision: Parents may use keyloggers to monitor their children’s online activities and protect them from potential threats.
Spousal Tracking: Keyloggers may be used by individuals to monitor their partner’s activities on devices they own, often in cases of suspicion of infidelity.
Employee Productivity Monitoring: Employers may use keyloggers to track employee productivity and ensure the appropriate use of company resources.

3. Criminal Uses

Illegal keylogger use involves the violation of consent, privacy, and ownership rights. These uses are considered malicious and often involve the theft of sensitive information. Examples include:

Stalking: Keyloggers may be used to track and monitor individuals without their consent, such as ex-partners, friends, or other targeted individuals.
Unauthorized Account Access: Keyloggers can be employed to steal login credentials and gain unauthorized access to personal accounts, including social media or email accounts.
Personal Information Theft: Keyloggers may capture sensitive data like credit card numbers, bank account details, or other personal information for criminal exploitation.

Why Keystroke Logging Is A Threat

Keystroke logging, when used maliciously, poses significant threats to individuals and organizations. Here are some reasons why keystroke logging is considered a threat:

1. Unauthorized Access: Keyloggers can capture sensitive information, including passwords, credit card numbers, and financial account details, without the user’s knowledge or consent. This information can then be used for unauthorized access to personal accounts, leading to identity theft, financial loss, or other malicious activities.

2. Privacy Invasion: Keystroke logging allows the monitoring and recording of all keystrokes made on a device, including private communications and sensitive information. This invasion of privacy can have severe consequences, as personal and confidential information may be exposed to unauthorized individuals.

3. Data Theft: Keyloggers can collect and store large amounts of sensitive data, making it an attractive target for hackers and criminals. If the collected data is not adequately protected, it can be stolen or leaked, leading to potential financial loss, reputational damage, or other harmful consequences.

4. Phishing Attacks: Keystroke logging can be used as a tool in phishing attacks, where individuals are tricked into providing their sensitive information unknowingly. By capturing keystrokes, attackers can obtain login credentials, credit card information, or other personal data, which can then be used for fraudulent purposes.

5. Malware Distribution: Keyloggers are often distributed as part of malware packages, infecting devices without the user’s knowledge. Once installed, keyloggers can operate silently in the background, capturing sensitive information and potentially spreading further malware or compromising the security of the device.

6. Targeted Attacks: Keyloggers can be used in targeted attacks, where specific individuals or organizations are selected as victims. These attacks can be highly sophisticated and tailored to exploit specific vulnerabilities, making them difficult to detect and mitigate.

History Of Keyloggers

The use of keyloggers for surveillance purposes has a long history, dating back to the early days of computers. Here are some notable events and developments in the history of keyloggers:

Early Use in Government Operations:

In the 1970s and early 1980s, keyloggers were used for various purposes, including government clandestine operations. One significant incident occurred when Soviet spies developed a hardware keylogger that targeted IBM Selectric typewriters in the US Embassy and Consulate buildings in Moscow and St. Petersburg. This keylogger measured the subtle changes in the magnetic field as the typewriter’s print head moved, allowing the spies to capture the typed content.

Rise of Commercial Keyloggers:

In the mid to late 1990s, the creation and use of commercial keyloggers began to grow rapidly. Numerous products entered the market during this time, catering to different target audiences and available in multiple languages. The availability and accessibility of commercial keyloggers increased significantly, contributing to their widespread use for various purposes.

Home User Fraud:

Historically, keyloggers have primarily targeted home users for fraudulent activities. Cybercriminals would use keyloggers to capture sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card numbers, and personal data to carry out identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious activities.

Industry and State-Sponsored Keylogging:

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about industry and state-sponsored keylogging. In these cases, attackers often initiate a phishing campaign to compromise a low-level employee or functionary within an organization. Once inside, they work their way up the hierarchy, using keyloggers to capture sensitive information and gain unauthorized access to systems or resources.

Types Of Keyloggers

There are two main types of keyloggers: software keyloggers and hardware keyloggers. Here’s a breakdown of how each type works:

1. Software Keyloggers:

Software keyloggers are computer programs that are installed on the device’s hard drive. They can capture and record keystrokes made on the keyboard. Here are some common types of software keyloggers:

API-Based Keyloggers: These keyloggers intercept keyboard signals by eavesdropping on the communication between the keyboard and the program you are typing into. They use application programming interfaces (APIs) to capture and log each keystroke in a system file.
Form Grabbing Keyloggers: These keyloggers capture the data entered into web forms before it is transmitted to the web server. They record the information locally, allowing the attacker to access it later.
Kernel-Based Keyloggers: These keyloggers operate at the kernel level of the operating system, giving them admin-level permissions. They can bypass security measures and gain unrestricted access to all keystrokes and system activities.

2. Hardware Keyloggers:

Hardware keyloggers are physical devices that are either built into the keyboard or connected between the keyboard and the computer. They capture keystrokes in real-time and store them for later retrieval. Here are some examples of hardware keyloggers:

Keyboard Hardware Keyloggers: These keyloggers are placed in line with the keyboard’s connection cable or built directly into the keyboard. They intercept and record the electrical signals sent from the keyboard to the computer.
Hidden Camera Keyloggers: These keyloggers use hidden cameras to visually track and record keystrokes. They are often placed in public spaces like libraries or internet cafes.
USB Disk-Loaded Keyloggers: These keyloggers are disguised as USB drives and contain malware that installs the keylogging software onto the victim’s computer when connected. Once installed, they capture and record keystrokes.

How Keyloggers Work

Keyloggers work by capturing and recording keystrokes made on a device, allowing attackers to gather sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal data. The following is a step-by-step breakdown of how keyloggers typically operate:

1. Installation:

Keyloggers can be installed on a device in various ways, such as:

Malicious Websites: Hackers can inject malicious code into web pages. When a user visits an infected website or clicks on a compromised link, the keylogger is automatically downloaded and installed on their device.
Phishing Emails: Cybercriminals may send phishing emails that appear legitimate, tricking users into clicking on malicious links or opening infected attachments. By doing so, the keylogger is downloaded and installed without the user’s knowledge.
Social Engineering: Keyloggers can be spread through social engineering tactics, where attackers impersonate trusted individuals or organizations to deceive users into downloading and installing malware, including keyloggers.
Bundled Software: Malicious users may embed keyloggers within software downloads from untrusted sources. When users download and install the desired software, they unknowingly also install the keylogging software.

2. Keystroke Capture:

Once installed, keyloggers monitor and capture every keystroke made on the device. This includes all keyboard inputs, including passwords, usernames, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information.

3. Data Logging:

The captured keystrokes are logged and stored in a hidden file or sent to a remote server controlled by the attacker. The data logged by the keylogger can include timestamps, application names, and other relevant information.

4. Transmission of Data:

Keyloggers may periodically transmit the logged data to the attacker’s server using various communication methods, such as email, FTP, or direct internet connections. This allows the attacker to access and analyze the captured information remotely.

5. Exploitation:

Once the attacker has obtained the logged data, they can exploit it for various malicious purposes. This can include identity theft, financial fraud, unauthorized access to accounts, or other forms of cybercrime.

Do Mobile Devices Get Keyloggers?

Mobile devices can be vulnerable to software keyloggers. While there are no known hardware keyloggers specifically designed for mobile phones, software keyloggers can still pose a threat to both Android and iPhone devices.

Software keyloggers for mobile devices can capture and record keystrokes made on virtual keyboards, as well as other activities on the device. They can also capture screenshots, access the phone’s camera and microphone, monitor network traffic, and even block access to certain websites.

Mobile devices can be infected with keyloggers through various methods, including malicious downloads, phishing attacks, or someone with unauthorized access to the device installing the keylogger. It’s important for users to be cautious when downloading apps or clicking on links, and to regularly update their devices with the latest security patches.

Safe Keyloggers

Keyloggers can have legitimate and legal uses in certain situations. Here are a few examples:

1. Employee Monitoring: In a business setting, employers may use keyloggers to monitor the activities of their employees on company-owned devices. This can help ensure productivity, prevent unauthorized use of company resources, or investigate potential misconduct. However, it’s important to comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding employee privacy and inform employees about the monitoring activities.

2. Parental Control: Parents may use keyloggers to monitor their child’s online activities and ensure their safety. This can help detect potential cyberbullying, online predators, or inappropriate content. However, it’s important to use keyloggers responsibly and respect the child’s privacy while balancing their safety.

3. Ethical Hacking/Penetration Testing: Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, may use keyloggers as part of their authorized efforts to assess the security of computer systems and networks. This is typically done with the consent and cooperation of the organization being tested, and the goal is to identify vulnerabilities and improve security measures.

How Keyloggers Attack Your Device

Keyloggers are malicious software or hardware devices that are designed to silently track and record the keystrokes made on a device. They can be installed on a device through various methods, each with the aim of gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information.

A. Spear Phishing: A Deceptive Tactic

Spear phishing is a targeted form of phishing that involves sending fraudulent emails or links disguised as legitimate messages. Attackers often impersonate trusted individuals or organizations to gain the victim’s trust. When users interact with these deceptive elements, such as opening an email or clicking on a link, keyloggers are installed on their devices. This method preys on trust and familiarity to trick users into unknowingly installing keyloggers.

B. Drive-by Download: Silent Intrusion

Drive-by downloading occurs when users visit compromised or malicious websites that automatically install keyloggers without their knowledge or consent. These websites exploit vulnerabilities in browsers, plugins, or outdated software, allowing the malware to be silently downloaded and executed in the background. Users may remain unaware of the keylogger’s presence until it’s too late.

C. Trojan Horse: Concealing the Threat

Keyloggers are often bundled within Trojan horse malware, which disguises itself as legitimate files or programs. When users unknowingly open these files, the malware is installed, initiating the keylogger. Trojan horse attacks can occur through various means, such as downloading software from untrustworthy sources or clicking on malicious links. This method capitalizes on users’ trust in seemingly harmless files, making it an effective way to distribute keyloggers.

Problems Caused by Keyloggers

A. Desktops and Laptops

1. Unknown Processes Consuming Computing Power: Keyloggers initiate processes that consume computing resources, potentially slowing down other applications or causing performance issues. Users may notice a decrease in overall system performance or unusual spikes in CPU or memory usage. Monitoring the task manager can help identify suspicious processes related to keyloggers.

2. Delays During Typing: Keyloggers intercept keystrokes, resulting in delays between key presses and characters appearing on the screen. If users notice a significant delay or lag when typing, especially if it is inconsistent with their usual typing speed, it could be a sign of a keylogger. However, it’s important to consider other factors like system performance or keyboard hardware issues before concluding the presence of a keylogger.

3. Applications Freeze Randomly: Keyloggers may interfere with normal application functioning, leading to unexpected freezes or crashes. If applications freeze or become unresponsive frequently, especially without any apparent reason or pattern, it could indicate the presence of a keylogger. However, it’s important to rule out other factors like software bugs or hardware issues before attributing it solely to a keylogger.

B. Androids and iPhones

1. Software Keyloggers on Mobile Devices: While hardware keyloggers are less common on mobile devices, software keyloggers can still compromise their security. Software keyloggers on mobile devices can capture screen taps, record virtual button presses, take screenshots, monitor camera and microphone activity, and track network traffic. They can also prevent users from accessing certain websites or perform actions without their knowledge.

2. Installation and Intrusion Methods: Attackers can gain short-term physical or remote access to mobile devices to install keyloggers. This can happen through techniques like social engineering, where users are tricked into granting access, or through exploiting vulnerabilities in the operating system or installed applications. Additionally, users may unknowingly install keyloggers by clicking on malicious links or attachments in emails, text messages, or app downloads. It is crucial for users to be vigilant and exercise caution when interacting with

Protect Yourself From Keyloggers

Keyloggers pose a significant threat to your privacy and security, but with the right precautions, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks. By staying informed and adopting safe online behaviors, you can enhance your cybersecurity and protect yourself against keylogging attacks. The following are some important steps you can take to protect yourself from keyloggers:

1. Install Reliable Antivirus Software: Use reputable antivirus software that includes anti-malware features. Regularly update the software to ensure it can detect and remove keyloggers effectively.

2. Keep Your Operating System and Applications Updated: Regularly update your operating system, web browsers, and other applications to patch any security vulnerabilities that keyloggers may exploit.

3. Be Cautious of Suspicious Emails and Links: Exercise caution when opening emails, especially those from unknown senders or those that seem suspicious. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from untrusted sources.

4. Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Create strong, complex passwords for all your accounts and avoid using the same password across multiple platforms. This will minimize the risk of unauthorized access to your accounts.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Implement two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a unique code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.

6. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi Networks: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities, such as online banking or accessing personal accounts. Public networks may be insecure and susceptible to keylogging attacks.

7. Regularly Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your financial and online accounts for any suspicious activity. Report any unauthorized transactions or changes immediately.

8. Use Virtual Keyboards: When entering sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, consider using virtual keyboards. These on-screen keyboards can help protect against keyloggers that capture physical keystrokes.

9. Educate Yourself and Practice Safe Online Behavior: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Be cautious when downloading software, clicking on links, or sharing personal information online. Avoid visiting suspicious websites or engaging in risky online behavior.

10. Perform Regular System Scans: Schedule regular scans of your device using your antivirus software to detect and remove any potential keyloggers or malware.

Detecting And Removing Keyloggers

Keyloggers can be stealthy and difficult to detect, but there are warning signs and steps you can take to identify and remove them from your devices. Here’s what you can do:

1. Look out for Warning Signs:

Keep an eye out for unusual behavior on your device that may indicate the presence of a keylogger. Warning signs include:

Slow browser performance: If your web browser suddenly becomes sluggish and takes longer to load pages, it could be a sign of a keylogger running in the background.
Lag in mouse movements and keystrokes: If you notice a delay or lag when typing or moving your mouse, it could indicate the presence of a keylogger intercepting your input.
Disappearing cursor: If your cursor disappears or moves erratically without your control, it may be a sign of a keylogger manipulating your device.

2. Use Task Manager or Activity Monitor:

On a PC, open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc or right-clicking the taskbar and selecting “Task Manager.” On a Mac, open the Activity Monitor by searching for it in Spotlight or navigating to Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor. These tools show you the processes and applications running on your device.

Review the list of running processes and applications. Look for any suspicious or unfamiliar processes that you don’t recognize. Pay attention to process names that seem random or unrelated to known applications.
If you identify a suspicious process, right-click on it and select “End Task” or “Force Quit” to terminate it. Be cautious and only end processes that you are confident are malicious.

3. Inspect Programs and Features:

On a PC, go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. On a Mac, go to Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor. Review the list of installed programs and applications on your device.

Look for any unfamiliar or suspicious programs that you don’t remember installing. Perform a quick online search for each program to gather more information about its legitimacy.
If you find a program that appears to be a keylogger or malware, uninstall it immediately by right-clicking on it and selecting “Uninstall” or dragging it to the Trash on a Mac.

4. Scan Your Device with Antivirus Software:

Regularly scan your device using reputable antivirus software. Antivirus software is designed to detect and remove keyloggers and other forms of malware.

Ensure your antivirus software is up to date with the latest virus definitions.
Initiate a full system scan and allow the software to thoroughly examine your device for any malicious programs or processes.
If the antivirus software detects a keylogger, follow the recommended actions to remove it from your device.

How to Remove Keyloggers: Manual Removal Steps

If you suspect or have identified a keylogger on your device and do not have antivirus software, you can take the following manual removal steps:

1. Uninstall the Program:

Go to Control Panel (Windows) or Applications (Mac) and locate the program associated with the keylogger.
Right-click on the program and select “Uninstall” (Windows) or drag it to the Trash (Mac).
Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process.

2. Clear Temporary Files:

Keyloggers may store temporary files on your device. Clearing these files can help remove any remnants of the keylogger.
On Windows, press the Windows key + R, type “%temp%”, and press Enter. Select all files and folders in the temporary folder and delete them.
On Mac, open Finder, click on “Go” in the menu bar, select “Go to Folder,” type “/tmp”, and click “Go.” Select all files in the temporary folder and move them to the Trash.

3. Reset Your Device and Restore from a Backup:

If you suspect that the keylogger has deeply infiltrated your device or if manual removal is unsuccessful, you may consider resetting your device to its factory settings.
Before resetting, ensure you have a recent backup of your important data.
On Windows, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and select “Reset this PC” to initiate the reset process.
On Mac, restart your device and hold down the Command + R keys until you see the Apple logo. Select “Disk Utility” and choose your startup disk. Click on the “Erase” tab and follow the prompts to erase your disk. Then, select “Reinstall macOS” to restore your device.

Note: Resetting your device will remove all applications, files, and settings, so ensure you have a backup of your important data before proceeding.

It’s important to remember that manual removal methods may not be as effective as using reputable antivirus software. Antivirus software is specifically designed to detect and remove keyloggers and other forms of malware. Regularly updating and running antivirus scans on your device is the best approach to ensure comprehensive protection against keyloggers and other threats.

Tools to Prevent Keylogging

To protect yourself from keyloggers, it’s important to take proactive measures and use the right tools. Here are some tools that can help prevent keylogging:

1. Firewall: A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and the internet, monitoring incoming and outgoing network traffic. It can detect and block any suspicious activity, including attempts by keyloggers to send data over the internet. Make sure to enable and configure your firewall settings properly to maximize its effectiveness.

2. Password Manager: Using a password manager can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to keyloggers. Password managers securely store your passwords and automatically fill them in for you when needed. By doing so, you can avoid typing your passwords manually, which can help bypass keyloggers. Additionally, password managers often generate strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts, making it harder for attackers to crack them.

3. System Updates: Keeping your operating system and applications up to date is crucial in preventing keyloggers. Software updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities exploited by keyloggers and other malware. Make sure to regularly check for updates and install them promptly to stay protected.

4. Antivirus Software: Antivirus software is designed to detect, block, and remove various types of malware, including keyloggers. It scans your system for any suspicious files or activities, providing real-time protection against potential threats. Keep your antivirus software updated and perform regular scans to ensure maximum security.

5. Virtual Keyboard: Some keyloggers are designed to capture keystrokes from physical keyboards. Using a virtual keyboard, which is a software-based keyboard displayed on your screen, can help prevent keyloggers from recording your keystrokes. Virtual keyboards allow you to click on the keys using your mouse or touchscreen, making it difficult for keyloggers to intercept your inputs.