'Security vulnerability': Over 460 HP laptop models have hidden keylogger

Vendor releases software patch and full list of affected devices

Hidden software that records every letter typed on a computer keyboard has been discovered pre-installed on a huge range of HP laptop models.

Discovered by security researcher Michael Myng, the keylogging code was found in software drivers pre-installed on HP laptops to make the keyboard work.

HP said more than 460 models of laptop were affected by the "potential security vulnerability", reports the BBC.

The vendor giant has issued a software patch for its customers to remove the keylogger. Dating back to 2012, HP has also issued a full list of affected devices.

The laptops affected include the EliteBook, ProBook, Pavilion and Envy ranges.

Myng discovered the keylogger while inspecting Synaptics Touchpad software, to figure out how to control the keyboard backlight on an HP laptop.

He said the keylogger was disabled by default, but an attacker with access to the computer could have enabled it to record what a user was typing, reports the BBC.

A HP statement released to CRN said: "HP was advised of an issue that exists with Synaptics' touchpad drivers that impacts all Synaptics OEM partners. HP uses Synaptics' touchpads in some of its mobile PCs and has worked with Synaptics to provide fixes to their error for impacted HP systems, available via the security bulletin on HP.com."