Member Avatar for zigbra

hi
has anyone had experience with software designed to snatch passwords from hotmail type of accounts? are they all a hoax, or can it be done?

thanks,
z

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As framed it, "password snatchers" is an umbrella term that hides very different things: many are scams or outright malware, while the realistic technical methods are local keyloggers on an infected machine, social‑engineering/phishing that tricks someone into giving credentials, or account takeovers that exploit password reuse. Network eavesdropping against major webmail providers is rare today because connections are normally encrypted, so local access or human factors are the usual weakness.

Because the OP is a parent worried about a teenager, covert credential capture brings real legal and ethical exposure and usually makes family problems worse. Safer, more effective approaches include keeping shared devices in public areas, creating supervised/limited user accounts on the machine, enabling built‑in OS or router parental controls and activity reporting, requiring multi‑factor authentication for important accounts, and setting clear rules and consequences for online behavior.

If a machine might already be compromised, look for indicators (new startup programs, persistent popups, changed homepages, unexplained slowdowns). From a trusted computer, run up‑to‑date antivirus and anti‑malware scans, install OS/browser updates, change account passwords from a clean device, and enable MFA. Router logs or ISP records can help in serious cases; professional malware removal or IT help is appropriate when problems persist.

Technical possibility aside (as noted) and the availability of commercial monitoring tools (as mentioned), any monitoring strategy should be lawful, proportional, and focused on safety. If there is any immediate risk of harm or illegal activity, contact local authorities, school officials, or a counselor rather than relying on covert surveillance.

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Member Avatar for dlh6213

I haven't had any experience with it, but I know it can be done. Why do you ask?

Member Avatar for zigbra

I haven't had any experience with it, but I know it can be done. Why do you ask?

I just found out that my 15 year old has been getting into some trouble, and sadly, we'd rather snoop around for more information than approach him with what we know now.

Member Avatar for dlh6213

Well, I'm not one to recommend password 'snatchers' to anyone for any reason. But there is some software available that may help you accomplish your objective:

Good luck.

Member Avatar for McGruff

I just found out that my 15 year old has been getting into some trouble, and sadly, we'd rather snoop around for more information than approach him with what we know now.

One of the best around for monitoring your child's internet activity is Spector which I believe you can find at www.SpectorSoft.com.

Hope it helps...

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