Ethical Hacking Essentials Practice Test

What does the term "keylogger" refer to in cybersecurity?

1. A tool for network monitoring

2. Software that captures keystrokes

3. A type of encryption algorithm

4. A method for securing passwords

The correct answer is: Software that captures keystrokes

The term "keylogger" in cybersecurity specifically refers to software that captures keystrokes made on a keyboard. This type of software is designed to record the user's input, which can include everything from passwords, emails, messages, and sensitive data. Keyloggers are often used maliciously by attackers to collect personal information without the victim's consent. Understanding this concept is crucial in cybersecurity because it highlights a significant vulnerability that users face, primarily if they are unaware of the risks of such software. Users can protect themselves by implementing security measures such as antivirus programs, firewalls, and educating themselves about the signs of keyloggers or other forms of malware. The other options entail tools or concepts that serve very different purposes in cybersecurity. While network monitoring tools analyze and manage the performance of networks, encryption algorithms focus on securing data by encoding it to prevent unauthorized access. Secure password methods might involve practices like password managers or two-factor authentication. Each of these serves distinct functions that do not align with the primary function of a keylogger.