keylogging

American  

[kee-law-ging, ‑-log-ing] / ˈkiˌlɔ gɪŋ, ‑ˌlɒg ɪŋ /

Or key logging

noun

Computers.

1. the practice of using a software program or hardware device keylogger to record all keystrokes on a computer keyboard, either overtly as a surveillance tool or covertly as spyware.

   Many employers are making use of keylogging to monitor their employees' computer habits.

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keylogging British  

/ ˈkiːˌlɒɡɪŋ /

noun

1. the practice of covertly recording and monitoring keystrokes made on a remote computer, typically using a dedicated software application or piece of implanted hardware

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Other Word Forms

• keylogger noun

Etymology

Origin of keylogging

First recorded in 1990–95; key(stroke) + log ¹; -ing ²

Example Sentences

Also called keylogging, this tool can let administrators know not only how many keystrokes are typed, but everything that’s actually typed, even deleted letters and words.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 16, 2021

Covert keylogging is one way hackers can gain access to passwords and other personal information.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 16, 2021

This in itself is fascinating—how did United figure out that its users were being targeted by keylogging software?

From Slate • Mar. 23, 2016

Are United MileagePlus members somehow especially susceptible to keylogging malware?

From Slate • Mar. 23, 2016

The Citadel network had remotely installed a keylogging program on about five million machines to steal data.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2013