WebProNews

While phishing attempts continue to try and trick users into giving up personal info, a new tactic tries to simply observe users and copy their keystrokes instead.

Security software firm Websense claims keylogger use is on the rise.

As criminals try to evade detection and methods of detecting phishing sites and scams improve, they are switching to ways of avoiding user interaction.

E-mail messages can be designed to deliver a malicious program without opening an attachment. Web sites can silently place keyloggers on unsuspecting user's machines.

Once the keylogger is in place, it records everything the user types. The program then sends its logfile back to a designated recipient. Account usernames and passwords can be used by whoever receives them, and a great deal of damage can be done in a short time.

Websense noted the increase in this alarming trend. For February and March, 10 new keylogger-type programs and over a hundred web sites set up to deliver them were found every week.

In addition to antivirus software, users should add anti-spyware systems to their machines, and keep it updated. Antivirus programs won't find keylogger software like anti-spyware programs will.

David Utter is a staff writer for WebProNews covering technology and business. Email him here.