What is a keylogger primarily used for?

A keylogger is primarily used to record users' keystrokes for data theft. This malicious software or hardware tool captures everything a user types on their keyboard, including sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers. By obtaining this data, attackers can gain unauthorized access to accounts, steal identities, and commit fraud.

The functionality of a keylogger arises from its ability to run in the background without the user's knowledge, making it a covert method for gathering information that can lead to significant security breaches. Understanding the implications of keyloggers is critical for implementing effective countermeasures and protective strategies to safeguard sensitive data.