What Does Shoulder Surfing Mean?

Shoulder surfing refers to the act of obtaining personal or private information through direct observation. Shoulder surfing involves looking over a person’s shoulder to gather pertinent information while the victim is oblivious. This is especially effective in crowded places where a person uses a computer, smartphone or ATM. If shoulder surfing occurs when there are very few people, the act becomes suspicious very quickly. Binoculars, video cameras and vision-enhancing devices also are used, depending on location and situation.

Techopedia Explains Shoulder Surfing

  • Look for an area where your back is against a wall.
  • Spend more for a screen filter or protector to obscure the visibility of the display.
  • Never give your password or any vital information to anyone.
  • Locate a quiet spot away from the crowd.
  • As much as possible, never open personal accounts in public.