Criminals could capture data from wireless keyboards

Cyber-criminals could use so-called 'sniffer' software to steal sensitive data from users of wireless keyboards, according to Symantec.

The security firm said an open-source project, dubbed Keykeriki, developed by a group called Remote-Exploit.org is intended to be used as an educational tool or to test the security of wireless keyboard transmissions.

However, because the software and schematics can be downloaded from the internet, there is nothing to stop criminals using it as a remote keystroke logger that can capture every keystroke without having to install malware onto a PC, said Symantec.

“The criminal implications of this are immediate and obvious. It would mean that someone would be able to remotely capture every keystroke made without having to install anything on to the system and capture personal, sensitive information such as passwords and bank details,” said Symantec.

The company “strongly recommends” using wired keyboards in the office and public places to avoid making critical data vulnerable.