Security Risks of Using Virtual Keyboard
Keylogger
A keylogger is a type of malware that records every keystroke a user makes on a physical or virtual keyboard. Although virtual keyboards are designed to avoid hardware keyloggers, there are software keyloggers that can capture data from virtual keystrokes. This keylogger can record sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data.
Spyware
Spyware is software that is installed without the user’s knowledge with the purpose of monitoring and collecting information from the user’s device. Spyware can record screen activity, including what is typed on the virtual keyboard. This allows hackers to obtain sensitive information that users enter.
Malware Attacks
Various types of malware can attack the user’s device and exploit weaknesses in the virtual keyboard. Some malware is capable of recording screen activity or taking screenshots while the user is typing important information. There is also malware that can change or redirect keyboard input so that the information entered by the user can fall into the wrong hands.
A Safer Method of Virtual Keyboard
Using Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)
Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) are hardware devices specifically designed to manage and protect cryptographic keys. HSMs provide a secure environment for executing cryptographic operations, such as encryption and decryption, that cannot be accessed by software or unauthorized users. By using HSMs, sensitive data entered through a virtual keyboard can be encrypted and protected from theft.
Utilizing Biometric Authentication
Biometric Authentication is an authentication method that uses a user’s unique physical characteristics, such as fingerprint, face, or retina, to verify identity. Biometrics are difficult to forge and provide an additional layer of security that is stronger compared to passwords or PINs entered through a virtual keyboard. The use of biometric authentication can reduce the risk of theft of data entered through the virtual keyboard.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Implementation
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security method that requires two forms of verification before granting access to an account or data. Typically, this involves a combination of something the user knows (a password) and something the user has (a verification code from an authentication device or app). By implementing 2FA, even if the information entered through the virtual keyboard is successfully stolen, hackers still need a second factor to access the account or data.
Practical Steps Users Can Take
- Use Security Hardware (HSM)
- Choose a recognized and trusted HSM device.
- Integrate HSMs with systems that require encryption of sensitive data.
- Make sure the HSM is always updated with the latest firmware to address security vulnerabilities.
- Enable Biometric Authentication
- Use a device that supports biometric authentication.
- Register unique biometrics such as fingerprints or facial recognition.
- Make sure the biometric software is set up correctly and securely.
- Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Enable 2FA on all accounts that support this feature.
- Use a trusted authentication app like Google Authenticator or Authy.
- Avoid using SMS as a second method, as it is more vulnerable to attacks.
- Update and Protect Software
- Keep the software and operating system updated to fix security gaps.
- Use trusted antivirus and antimalware to protect your device from cyberattacks.
- Avoid downloading or installing apps from unknown or untrusted sources.
- Security Education and Awareness
- Educate yourself and employees about the security risks associated with virtual keyboards.
- Follow best security practices in device and internet usage.
- Don’t carelessly share sensitive information and always verify sources before entering important data.