KeySweeper is a device that masquerades as a functional USB to AC adapter that could actually be storing and sending every keystroke from a Microsoft wireless keyboard. The wall charger is surprisingly cheap to build and quite capable. It can store data or send it over GSM. It’s Arduino-based and can even provide a web interface to watch keystrokes in real-time. It even has a built-in battery so it will keep sniffing even after it’s been unplugged.
You can see the full price break-down on components and how to build your own KeySweeper from its author Samy Kamkar at samy.pl/keysweeper. You can also watch the half hour explanation of the device embedded below to understand many of the technical ins-and-outs of this new round of paranoia.
Want to avoid becoming a victim of any of these cool, compact keyloggers? Use a wired keyboard for more security. Check that the keyboard plugs directly into the computer and isn’t intercepted on its way. Also double-check for unknown devices plugged into the back of the computer. Lastly, your endpoint protection software should be defending you against software-based keyloggers but you always have to fear the rootkit that is hiding its tracks.