What is shoulder surfing?

Shoulder surfing refers specifically to the act of closely observing someone as they enter sensitive information, such as a personal identification number (PIN) or password, typically by looking over their shoulder. This technique is a physical form of data theft where the observer can gain unauthorized access to secure information simply by watching.

In the context of security and information protection, shoulder surfing highlights the vulnerabilities that exist in public spaces where individuals may be distracted or unaware that someone is watching them. This behavior can occur in various settings, such as at ATMs, coffee shops, or during business meetings where laptops and devices are in use. Recognizing shoulder surfing is crucial as individuals can implement strategies to protect their sensitive information, such as using privacy screens, being aware of their surroundings, and covering their keyboard when entering passwords.