PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Computers and Electronics
Computers
Computer Viruses
How to Detect and Remove Keyloggers Download Article Co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha and Travis Boylls
Last Updated: February 24, 2025 Tested
Download Article
Preparing Your Computer
|
Detecting Keyloggers
|
Removing the Keylogger
|
Video
|
Q&A
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha and by wikiHow staff writer, Travis Boylls. Yaffet Meshesha is a Computer Specialist and the Founder of Techy, a full-service computer pickup, repair, and delivery service. With over eight years of experience, Yaffet specializes in computer repairs and technical support. Techy has been featured on TechCrunch and Time. The wikiHow Tech Team also followed the article's instructions and verified that they work. This article has been viewed 472,005 times.
A keylogger is a piece of generally-malicious software or hardware installed on your computer that logs what you type. While they may be legitimately used in rare circumstances, they can also be used by cybercriminals to gather personal information and passwords. They can also cause your computer to slow down. This wikiHow teaches you to detect and remove it keyloggers.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 3:
Preparing Your Computer
Download Article
1 Update your operating system and applications. Outdated software may have exposed security holes that can open your computer up to infection.
Make sure that all users of the computer know not to click freely on the internet, especially pop-ups, and avoiding freebies at all costs.
2 Configure your web browser's security settings. The process of configuring your web browser is different from one web browser to another. Open the Settings menu on your web browser and look for the Privacy and/or Security settings. Disable any unwanted plug-ins, block malicious websites, and clear your browser history. Delete cookies that track personal information.[1]XResearch source Advertisement
3 Install reputable security software on your computer. Install both an on-demand anti-malware and an always-on antivirus. Free options include Malwarebytes (for malware) and Avast or Panda (for antivirus). Keep your security software updated.
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 3:
Detecting Keyloggers
Download Article
1 Open the Task Manager. Use the following steps to open the Task Manager:
Right-click the taskbar at the bottom of the page.
Click Task Manager in the pop-up menu.
2 Click More Details. It's in the lower-left corner of the Task Manager. This displays a list of all processes running on your computer. This includes apps you have open as well as processes running in the background.
3 Check for suspicious processes. You'll most likely find suspicious processes running in the background. Check for apps that you don't recognize.
If you are not sure what a process is, right-click it and click Search online. This will do a Google search of the app or process.
If you find a process you want to stop, click the process and then click End task in the lower-right corner.
4 Click the Startup tab. It's at the top of the Task Manager. This displays a list of programs that startup with your computer.
5 Check for any suspicious programs. Look through all the startup programs and see if there is anything you don't recognize.
If your are not sure what a program is, right-click it and click Search Online. This does a Google Search of the program.
If you find a program you want to disable. Click the program and click Disable in the lower-right corner.
6 Scan for viruses and malware. Many keyloggers hide themselves from both msconfig and the Task Manager, or disguise themselves as legitimate programs. Use your reputable anti-malware to scan for viruses and malware on your computer.
7 Check on your desktop computer. If you have a desktop computer, it may also have a hardware keylogger on it. Look at where your keyboard cable connects to your tower. If there is a device plugged in between the keyboard cable and the tower, it might be a hardware keylogger.
Please note that this may also be a legitimate converter or device. If you find an unfamiliar device attached to your computer, find out who put it there and why.
Advertisement Part 3 Part 3 of 3:
Removing the Keylogger
Download Article
1 Determine if the keylogger is visible. If the keylogger detected is visible as an entry on the list of programs in the Control Panel, then it might be a legitimate keylogger program with an uninstaller. Uninstall the program, and use an anti-malware to remove any remnants.
2 Try an uninstaller. With some keylogger programs, such as Logixoft's Revealer Keylogger, the installer can be used to uninstall the keylogger. Download the installer, and use that to uninstall the keylogger. You can also uninstall programs through the Settings menu. Remove remnants of the keylogger using a reputable anti-malware scanner.
If you are unable to uninstall the program, try restarting your computer in Safe Mode and uninstalling it while in Safe Mode.
3 Perform an Offline Scan with Windows 10 Defender. After getting the latest updates for your antivirus, run a rootkit detector such as Windows Defender Offline. In order for you to run it, you have to go deep into settings or create offline media.
4 Search for specific advice for the keylogger, by name. Do a Google search for the specific keylogger program name. Some keylogger programs, such as Refog, actively prevent uninstallation. Check on internet forums such as Bleeping Computer to see how you can remove the program without breaking your computer.
Hijack This is a good tool for removing programs that are buried deep within your Windows Registry. However, you need to use Hijack This with caution. It can also be used to inadvertently delete things Windows needs to function. Do a Google search before deleting any registry items.
5 Consider reinstalling your computer's operating system. Many keyloggers get buried deep within your Windows Operating system, making them difficult to remove. In some cases, the easiest solution may be to back up your files and reinstall Windows.[2]X Expert Source Yaffet MesheshaComputer SpecialistExpert Interview
Reinstalling Windows will remove everything on your computer. Be sure to back up your files before reinstalling your system. You can back up your files using an external hard drive, or a cloud service such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or One Drive.
You should reinstall your operating system if you have detected a keylogger on a computer that you plan to use for bank transactions or dealing with trade secrets, because the keylogger might not have been completely removed.
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question Can keyloggers detect an on-screen keyboard? wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Yes, some keyloggers can detect inputs in an on-screen keyboard. This is because some keyloggers record mouse clicks and system-level events as well as keyboard presses. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question Can antivirus detect keyloggers? wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Yes, most modern antivirus software can detect software keyloggers. Physical keyloggers, however, can only be detected by manually checking your computer. To find a physical keylogger, look for any unknown drives or devices plugged into your computer. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question What is the best anti-malware to download that removes keyloggers? wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Two of the best anti-malware programs that can detect and block keyloggers are Bitdefender and Malwarebytes. However, if you're on a Windows computer, Windows Security, Windows' built-in antivirus, also does a good job at protecting you against keyloggers. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
If you have used your computer to do bank transactions, your passwords may have been compromised. Immediately, change your passwords using a computer known to be safe. Contact your bank if you see any suspicious transactions done using your account. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 1
Some good free installations include; Avast and Comodo. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 4
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
Certain keylogger programs are invisible to anti-spyware and firewall programs. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 4
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toKnow if You Have Spyware on Your ComputerHow to Detect Remote Access to My Computer: Signs + Expert TipsHow to Remove and Prevent Malware on a ComputerHow to Make Windows 7 Faster: A Step-by-Step GuideHow to Remove a Virus on Windows or Mac: Step-By-Step Guide2 Easy Ways to Manually Remove Adware on a ComputerWhat to Do If Your Computer Is Running Slow: Troubleshooting GuideComplete Guide to Troubleshooting a PC: Steps, Tools, & TipsHow toSpeed up a Windows XP ComputerHow toFix a Hacked Android PhoneHow toRemove a RootkitClean Up a Slow Performing Computer: Fixing Common IssuesHow toClean up a Computer & Fix Problems for FreeHow toTell if Your Computer Is Infected by a Trojan Horse Advertisement
Co-authored by: Yaffet Meshesha Computer Specialist This article was co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha and by wikiHow staff writer, Travis Boylls. Yaffet Meshesha is a Computer Specialist and the Founder of Techy, a full-service computer pickup, repair, and delivery service. With over eight years of experience, Yaffet specializes in computer repairs and technical support. Techy has been featured on TechCrunch and Time. This article has been viewed 472,005 times. How helpful is this? Co-authors: 16Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 472,005 Categories: Computer VirusesArticle SummaryX
1. Update your system and applications. 2. Install a reputable anti-virus and anti-malware program. 3. Right-click the taskbar and open the Task Manager. 4. Click More details. 5. Look for suspicious programs or processes running and end them. 6. Uninstall any keyloggers you know about. 7. Click the Startup tab and disable any startup programs that look suspicious. 8. Use the install program, or Windows Settings to uninstall any keyloggers you know about. 9. Run an anti-virus and anti-malware scan. 10. Do an online search for instructions on how to remove keyloggers that are hard uninistall. 11. Consider reinstalling your operating system, if all else fails. Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Indonesian Russian Thai Italian German Portuguese Spanish Dutch Chinese Vietnamese Korean Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 472,005 times.
Is this article up to date?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Yaffet Meshesha Computer Specialist Click a star to vote Co-authors: 16Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 472,005
Quizzes & Games
Would I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizOCD TestTake QuizScam DetectorAnalyzeAm I Chronically Online QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toKnow if You Have Spyware on Your ComputerHow to Detect Remote Access to My Computer: Signs + Expert TipsHow to Remove and Prevent Malware on a ComputerHow to Make Windows 7 Faster: A Step-by-Step Guide
Trending Articles
Psychopath TestWhat Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Kind of Cat Am I QuizIf I Were A... Quiz
Trending Articles
Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Do I Have Main Character Energy?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?What Are Narrow Clavicles? Plus, How to Build Shoulder Width with Exercises
Take the Quiz Everyone Is Talking About
Am I Gay QuizWhat Animal Am I QuizWhat Is My Mental Age QuizHow Well Do I Know My Best Friend Quiz
You've Seen These All Over Your Feed
10+ Scary Phone Numbers to Call360 of the Best Borg Names for Your Next Party: Unique, Historical & MoreWhat Every Domain Expansion Hand Sign Means In Jujutsu KaisenThe Ultimate List of Truth or Drink Questions
Featured Videos
How toPlay Dice (2 Dice Gambling Games)How toPersuade a Girl over TextHow toGive Someone the Silent TreatmentHow toMake Hibiscus Tea
Hot Takes 🔥 🔥 🔥
Do You Agree with These Crazy Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These Pop Culture Hot Takes?Do You Agree With These Fashion Hot Takes?Do You Agree With These Board Game Hot Takes?
Your Daily Dose of Fun!
When Will I Get My First Period QuizAm I a Bruh Girl?Which My Little Pony Am I QuizAm I Cool Quiz
Categories
Computers and Electronics
Computers
Computer Viruses
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Home
About wikiHow
Experts
Jobs
Contact Us
Site Map
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info
Contribute
Follow Us
×
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve
Download Article Co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha and Travis Boylls 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Yaffet Meshesha Computer Specialist This article was co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha and by wikiHow staff writer, Travis Boylls. Yaffet Meshesha is a Computer Specialist and the Founder of Techy, a full-service computer pickup, repair, and delivery service. With over eight years of experience, Yaffet specializes in computer repairs and technical support. Techy has been featured on TechCrunch and Time. This article has been viewed 472,005 times. How helpful is this? Co-authors: 16 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 472,005 Categories: Computer Viruses Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Analyze
Take Quiz 
556 
1 Update your operating system and applications. Outdated software may have exposed security holes that can open your computer up to infection. 
2 Configure your web browser's security settings. The process of configuring your web browser is different from one web browser to another. Open the Settings menu on your web browser and look for the Privacy and/or Security settings. Disable any unwanted plug-ins, block malicious websites, and clear your browser history. Delete cookies that track personal information.[1] Advertisement 
3 Install reputable security software on your computer. Install both an on-demand anti-malware and an always-on antivirus. Free options include Malwarebytes (for malware) and Avast or Panda (for antivirus). Keep your security software updated. Advertisement 
1 Open the Task Manager. Use the following steps to open the Task Manager: 
2 Click More Details. It's in the lower-left corner of the Task Manager. This displays a list of all processes running on your computer. This includes apps you have open as well as processes running in the background. 
3 Check for suspicious processes. You'll most likely find suspicious processes running in the background. Check for apps that you don't recognize. 
4 Click the Startup tab. It's at the top of the Task Manager. This displays a list of programs that startup with your computer. 
5 Check for any suspicious programs. Look through all the startup programs and see if there is anything you don't recognize. 
6 Scan for viruses and malware. Many keyloggers hide themselves from both msconfig and the Task Manager, or disguise themselves as legitimate programs. Use your reputable anti-malware to scan for viruses and malware on your computer. 
7 Check on your desktop computer. If you have a desktop computer, it may also have a hardware keylogger on it. Look at where your keyboard cable connects to your tower. If there is a device plugged in between the keyboard cable and the tower, it might be a hardware keylogger. 
1 Determine if the keylogger is visible. If the keylogger detected is visible as an entry on the list of programs in the Control Panel, then it might be a legitimate keylogger program with an uninstaller. Uninstall the program, and use an anti-malware to remove any remnants. 
2 Try an uninstaller. With some keylogger programs, such as Logixoft's Revealer Keylogger, the installer can be used to uninstall the keylogger. Download the installer, and use that to uninstall the keylogger. You can also uninstall programs through the Settings menu. Remove remnants of the keylogger using a reputable anti-malware scanner. 
3 Perform an Offline Scan with Windows 10 Defender. After getting the latest updates for your antivirus, run a rootkit detector such as Windows Defender Offline. In order for you to run it, you have to go deep into settings or create offline media. 
4 Search for specific advice for the keylogger, by name. Do a Google search for the specific keylogger program name. Some keylogger programs, such as Refog, actively prevent uninstallation. Check on internet forums such as Bleeping Computer to see how you can remove the program without breaking your computer. 
5 Consider reinstalling your computer's operating system. Many keyloggers get buried deep within your Windows Operating system, making them difficult to remove. In some cases, the easiest solution may be to back up your files and reinstall Windows.[2] 
wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.