Skip to content

Input Capture

What is "Input Capture"?

Input Capture refers to the techniques and methods used by attackers to record or intercept inputs entered into a system. These inputs can include keystrokes, mouse clicks, touch screen interactions, and other data entry methods. The goal of input capture is typically to steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, personal identification numbers (PINs), and other confidential data.

How does Input Capture work?

Input capture can be implemented through various mechanisms:

  1. Keyloggers: Software or hardware devices that record every keystroke made on a computer. Software keyloggers are programs installed in the background without the user’s knowledge, capturing keystrokes and either storing them locally or sending them to an attacker. Hardware keyloggers are physical devices inserted between the keyboard and the computer, capturing keystrokes directly.

  2. Form Grabbers: Malware that specifically targets form data submitted in web browsers. When a user submits a form (e.g., logging into a website), the form grabber captures the data before it is encrypted by HTTPS.

  3. Clipboard Sniffing: Applications or scripts that monitor the clipboard for any copied data such as passwords or account numbers.

  4. Screen Scraping: Techniques used to capture graphical information displayed on the screen. This can be done by taking screenshots at intervals or recording video of screen activity.

  5. Over-the-Shoulder Attacks: Physically observing a user’s input. While not technically sophisticated, it is effective in certain scenarios like ATM transactions or public computer usage.

  6. Acoustic Cryptanalysis: Capturing sounds made by keystrokes to deduce which keys are being pressed.

Where is Input Capture used?

Input capture techniques are employed in various environments where data theft can be lucrative for attackers:

  • Personal Computers: Targeted via malware for financial fraud or identity theft.
  • Point of Sale (POS) Systems: To steal credit card information.
  • ATMs: For capturing PINs alongside skimming devices that capture card details.
  • Corporate Environments: To gain unauthorized access to proprietary systems or sensitive information.
  • Public Access Terminals: Such as those in libraries or internet cafes where users might enter sensitive information.

Why is Input Capture significant?

Input Capture is significant due to its direct impact on information security:

  • Data Theft: Directly leads to unauthorized access to sensitive personal and financial information.
  • Bypassing Security Measures: Captured credentials can be used to bypass security measures such as authentication systems.
  • Financial Fraud and Identity Theft: Stolen data can be used for fraudulent transactions or identity theft, leading to substantial financial losses and damage to reputation.
  • Legal and Compliance Issues: Breaches involving input capture may violate privacy laws and regulations such as GDPR, leading to legal repercussions for affected organizations.

Understanding input capture techniques enables organizations and individuals to implement more effective countermeasures such as encrypted keyboard drivers, anti-keylogging software, regular system audits, secure coding practices for applications handling sensitive input, and user education about secure computing practices.