Can a keyboard carry malware?
Two researchers for the security consultancy SR Labs, Karsten Nohl and Jakob Lell, have discovered that USB devices such as the ubiquitous thumb-drive or even a USB keyboard or mouse, can have its firmware reprogrammed by malicious software to deliver virtually any kind of attack once it’s connected to a computer’s USB …
Can a virus infect keyboard?
There is no a specific virus that infects keyboards as it does not have its own ROM or any other data storage on its own. However, there are many viruses which make the keyboard malfunction. Computer viruses that affect the keyboard are considered malicious viruses.
Can keyboards store data?
Much like a printer, most wireless keyboards have a short-term memory log which encrypts the data you type into it and sends it to the computer to be interpreted and make characters appear on the screen. This is a relatively safe process, providing that your keyboard does encrypt the data.
Does keyboard have memory?
Keyboards typically do not have any software or memory. There are a few rare exceptions, such as the Logitech G19 gaming keyboard which has a little computer built into it to run applications, but for a typical USB (or P/S 2) keyboard, you have nothing to fear.
How safe are Bluetooth keyboards?
It’s actually quite safe to use Bluetooth keyboards. Since 2009 on, bluetooth keyboards have encrypted all traffic end to end with the exception of service discovery. In other words, only the advertising packets that basically say “I’m a keyboard” or “I’m a trackpad or mouse” are unencrypted.
Can a keyboard be hacked?
While the keyboard may be running an encrypted session with the dongle, unencrypted input can still be sent to the dongle and played to access the attached computer and send commands. The wireless keyboard can also be compromised in a way that turns it into a keylogger.