10 replies to this topic

[quantum2384]

I know that keyloggers are frowned upon in the AHK, but because of a situation last year in my dorm where my roommate let kids in to drink and one of the used my computer and got my credit card info, I came up with this nifty little project to kill time while I'm at my internship. Basically what it does(will do) is it is a toggable keylogger so that when I log in I can turn it off. When it is on it will start recording strokes and on five minute intervales it will send me an email through gmail (used a VBS script to do this) with an attachment of what is being typed, what folders are accessed and some other things. If delicate information is accessed(certain sites, or folders) it will log an entry into a .ini file and forces a shutdown. On start up it will read the .ini file and if the log is there then if the hotkey isn't toggled, it will force a shutdown. Each startup and shut down done like this is emailed to me. If the user shuts down the script I have 4 scripts watching it (and each other) that will email me as to which script was shut down. I have it with no tray icon. Now, what I want it to do is for it to start at startup without using the startup folder? possible?

[quantum2384]

These scripts are not meant to be used in any malicious way, in fact they are used to prevent malicious acts. I am aware that keyloggers can be misussed, which is why I have not posted any portion of this. If you have any question as to how I did(am doing) any portion outside of the actual logging action, I'll be glad to give out what pointers I can, I've only been using AHK for 6 weeks so I'm not that good yet lol

[Carcophan]

Hav you tried to Lock the computer, and disable guest accounts?


I mean looking for a solution to a code problem is one thing. Solving the problem of people accessing your machine, is another.

You don't need a keylogger to lock or secure your stuff. But you know this.


A suggestion, re-ask your question and leave the details out that scare people. "[Can you run a script] at startup without using the startup folder?"

[MasterFocus]

+1 Carcophan

[quantum2384]

Problem is, I can lock it and disable guest accounts, but my roommate knew my password to get on, also if someone really wants to get in and steal credit information, They can do it. Yes I've changed my passwords on everything. A script like this can also protect your information in the event that your computer is stolen and the theif has managed to get your computer unlocked (really common thing at a college campus). I can easily add in functions that after lets say 10 resets, it will email, then purge and delete all delicate files. The way it is monitoring the folders, if someone trys to remotely access them, the same actions will take place.And yes my original question is can you run a script at startup without using the startup folder, I was by no means trying to scare anyone, rather provide an interesting anecdote as to something really powerful you can do with AHK.

[girlgamer]

put a bios password on the machine and give it to no one. only let someone use your machine when you're there. turn it off when you're not there. for me, i'd have a bios password, a windows password, and an automatic boot into my passworded screensaver then i'd turn the machine off and unplug it. But, hey, I'm seriously paranoid when it comes to my "stuff". As an afterthought, I'd probably put all my sensitive stuff on a memory stick and encrypt it as well

[DethKlok]

It would be funny if you switched all your kb keys/mouse buttons around and add sound beeps to them. Idk if it would work too well, but it's an idea. Would take them a good while to get info off your computer (: But yeah, if it was to really protect your computer, change your pw, or add a bio's pw like gamergirl said, or both.

Edit: Didn't even think of the consequences of what i just said, They might accidently start deleting stuff doing that.

[Carcophan]

GirlGamers post reminded me of something that may be a good idea for you too.

The USB Drive 'key'.

Your machine may have 2,3,4,6,12 USB ports on it. If you have a USB drive, put this special script on and it will autorun when inserted into the machine. It will only 'unclock' the computer if the right USB stick is inserted into the right USB slot, like a key to a door.


Have the machine be able to load, but have it 'mouse lock' or something, disable to internet, or other fun/mean stuff unless the right usb pair is met.

I have to search for the script, i can't remember the name. It is floating around here somewhere if you are interested.

[Tilter_of_Windmills]

<!-- l --><a class="postlink-local" href="http://www.autohotkey.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=74542">viewtopic.php?t=74542</a><!-- l -->

[dmg]

To answer your actual question... I know of only two ways to have something start with Windows. There is the Startup folder and the registry. I personally think of the registry as a very scary thing, but if you feel up to it here is a little info to help:
<!-- m -->http://www.pctools.c...try/detail/109/<!-- m -->
You will probably need more information than this but it should get you started. And you could even use the RegWrite command to have your scripts add themselves.

I suggest you back up your computer and create a system restore point before you mess with the registry. Like I said, it is a VERY scary thing. :shock:

[Eedis]

Put a hard drive password on the machine. And if you're THAT paranoid enough to go through all of that, use a password like... "yjododstrs;;u;pmhimjsvlsn;r[sddeptf1#5&9@4^8)"... No password cracking software will be able to crack that. Easy way to remember it, it's simply an easy to remember sentence, just one character to the right.

There is WAY too many other ways to secure your system than to create a ridiculous script that causes you to get 288 emails a day. (Actual math, given an email every 5 minutes.)