Method and apparatus for providing secure and private keyboard communications in computer systems

A method and apparatus for providing secure and private keyboard communications in a computer system. A request for private keyboard communications causes the computer's processor to enter into system management mode by generating an system management interrupt. A secure system management interrupt handler then directs specialized hardware to intercept and divert keyboard interrupts, such that data entered via the keyboard is only communicated to a non-readable black box security device that controls access to protected system resources. Keyboard data is thereby protected from interception by malicious software.