Definitions[]
Shoulder surfing is
| “ | the act of looking over someone's shoulder or from a nearby location as the victim enters his or her Personal Identification Number (PIN) at an ATM machine or a password on a computer screen, cellphone or other device. | ” |
| “ | [a] spying technique of observing the screen or keyboard from behind a terminal operator to gain information.[1] | ” |
Overview[]
"It is an effective way to get information in crowded places because it's relatively easy to stand next to someone and watch as they fill out a form, enter a PIN number at an ATM machine or type a password. Can also be done long-distance with the aid of binoculars or other vision-enhancing devices. To combat it, experts recommend that you shield paperwork or your keypad from view by using your body or cupping your hand. Also, be sure you password-protect your computer screen when you must leave it unattended, and clear your desk at the end of the day."[2]
References[]
- ↑ Computer Crime: Criminal Justice Resource Manual, Glossary of Technical Terms, at xix.
- ↑ Cyber Security Planning Guide, at CSG-7.