What is Shoulder surfing

Shoulder surfing is using direct observation techniques, such as looking over someone’s shoulder, to get information. Shoulder surfing 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 use a calling card at a public pay phone. Shoulder surfing can also be done long distance with the aid of binoculars or other vision-enhancing devices. To prevent shoulder surfing, experts recommend that you shield paperwork or your keypad from view by using your body or cupping your hand.

A term used to describe a person that looks over another person’s shoulder as they enter data into a computer or other device. For example, someone might shoulder surf when you are entering your computer password ,ATM pin, or credit card number. Criminals often use this technique to gain access to your personal accounts or read personal information, such as emails.