Are keyloggers softwares really a good idea?

by OSDRAGON Jul 21, 2006 1:53PM PDT

Now here's a question that might be of a problem to this website: Are Keylogger softwares really a good idea? Now, some of you might not agree with me, but people have been known to be hacked and have their personal information taken because of these malicious softwares. I've been wondering if these people do have the permission to use these softwares, like a permit or some sort. For those who use these softwares should beware of the penalty of using such a software. Now, all im saying is that it's an invasion of privacy and not right to invade one's personal information without one's consent. There were a number of my friends that were hacked because of these softwares and i wish to help make it safer for these people to use these softwares in a manner that is appropriate for bussiness and families (for those who have kids). I need to know why is such a software that malicious is so easy to download without some sort of permit or the consent of a high authority of the company or law enforcers?

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While keyloggers are frequently used for malicious purposes, they remain widely available because their 'designed purpose' is legitimate and legal. They are designed for parents to monitor kids, companies to monitor employees, etc, which is, for the most part, completely legal. As long as they don't design the software specifically for the committal of a crime they're fine...they don't even technically have to include the clause that you agree to use their software legally, though it does help to indemnify them.

It's the same way with P2P software. The latest studies show that over 90% of all 'shared' files are illegal (be it pirated software/music, software/files to facilitate piracy, or confidential documents), yet the services remain open. Why? They have a designed purpose that is legal and contributes to the greater good. However, they are starting to crack down, making the networks responsible for the content that's 'shared.'

Perhaps over time regulations over the availability of keyloggers will be created, but I doubt it. It's taken years for them to begin to crack down on P2P, and that's something that costs major corporations and influential people millions of dollars per year. Something that affects the average person and can be prevented through the use of antispyware software simply won't garner the attention or regulation.

John

But the fact is that it is still considered a spyware in most of the anti-spyware programs, but since it is a program to monitor employees and famliy members it could b used for those. But there are programs in school used to litterally monitor students and munipulate the mouse to the users will. but it has to be in a network in order to be used, but if the cable used to monitor the family or employees were to be removed, then internet becomes unavailable.
I'm not saying you're wrong that keeping such programs can be a good idea but to replace the program with another, more safer program that can only be used to help employees and family surf the web in a more comfortable manner. But I really should consider the fact that spywares can be created at anytime and stuff.
But I do got some questions on why is keyloggers consired spywares if they are meant to be used to monitor employees and family members on the web or other programs. Also, although you do prove a point on why spywares take up alot of money to crunch down on them.

Are keyloggers softwares really a good idea?

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