Typing trackers: the five best free keylogging tools for Windows and Mac

best free keyloggers for windows and mac os x shutterstock 178295108Image used with permission of the copyright holder Keyloggers are designed to record every keystroke made on the computers on which they are installed. Some keyloggers even automatically record which programs are running and send the information to whoever installed them without the user’s knowledge, creating a simple and discreet method to track activity.

Note that commercial keyloggers are not necessarily illegal, as long as you own the computer on which the software is installed. You may face some moral and possibly legal problems if you are not.

Here are our top picks for the best free keyloggers for Windows and Mac. Also, feel free to check out our favorite picks for the best parental control software, along with our step-by-step guide to blocking unwanted websites.

Kidlogger (Windows/Mac OS X)

As one of the most detailed free keyloggers, Kidlogger does more than just provide parents with keystroke information. Kidlogger captures occasional screenshots and webcam images when using chat programs such as Skype, while simultaneously recording app and website usage data.

KidLoggerImage used with permission of the copyright holder

You can also define a list of specific keywords or phrases, such as “drugs” or “sex”. Kidlogger also tracks the amount of active time for any user on the computer and emails detailed reports straight to your inbox.

Revealer Keylogger (Windows)

Revealer Keylogger records every keystroke typed on the target computer, regardless of the programs being used, while also allowing you to customize the application’s startup settings.

Revealer KeyloggerImage used with permission of the copyright holder

The program also works undetected in almost all situations and boasts password protection to boot. The ability to automatically send reports via email is exclusive to the premium package ($40), though the freemium option should suffice for those just looking for an easy way to log keystrokes and little else.

Spyrix Keylogger (Windows)

You can’t have everything for free. Although some notable features are missing from the free version of Spyrix Keylogger, it is still a solid option. Spyrix gives you the ability to record any keystrokes that are typed on the target computer, along with the option to take occasional screenshots.

Spyrix KeyloggerImage used with permission of the copyright holder

The program appears in the active processes of your computer, and the installation folder of the software is not exactly hidden. However, computer administrators can still password protect the program to prevent unwanted changes. On top of that, you can even monitor portable flash drives and printers or remotely uninstall software if needed.

Blackbox Express (Windows)

If you’re looking for a complete keylogging service with the ability to track multiple computers, look no further than Blackbox Express. Not only do you have the ability to monitor one local computer, but the software allows you to monitor up to 200 other computers on the same network. The software offers all the basic functions you’ve come to expect from a standard keylogger, including the ability to log keystrokes, capture screenshots, and track site visits and application usage — along with options to view instant messaging activity and more.

Blackbox ExpressImage used with permission of the copyright holder

Blackbox Express also has the ability to send email and text alerts whenever a user types in a defined keyword. Plus, the interface and setup wizard make it a breeze to use. Blackbox Express appears in Task Manager as an active process, so keep that in mind.

DanuSoft free keylogger (Windows)

DanuSoft Free Keylogger is a solid program with minimal add-ons. It provides low-profile surveillance and records user keystrokes while operating stealthily in the background.

DanuSoft KeyloggerImage used with permission of the copyright holder

The program requires keywords created by the administrator to hide or show the program. Unfortunately, the software remains visible in the computer’s Task Manager and there is no password protection option. DanuSoft Free Keylogger is extremely lightweight and easy to use, which should appeal to keylogger beginners.

Do you have a favorite keylogger that didn’t make our list? Let us know in the comments below.

[Header image courtesy of: Evdokimov Maxim/Shutterstock]

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Source: newstars.edu.vn

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