What is Shoulder Surfing?

Shoulder surfing is a technique malicious entities use to acquire sensitive information, such as passwords, PINs, or other secret data. Threat actors commonly execute this activity by observing someone’s movements in public.

This attack is common at cafes, airports, and other public venues where people expose their gadgets publicly.

The attacker can either directly monitor the target entering critical information or utilise tools like cameras, binoculars, or even concealed surveillance tools to obtain essential credentials. This strategy is based on the victim being careless or unaware of their surroundings and failing to protect their data.

Despite being a low-tier cybercriminal activity, shoulder surfing is highly effective because it completely avoids advanced cybersecurity measures and focuses on human behaviour. Essentially, this method exploits the vulnerability of expected behaviours, classifying it as “social hacking.”

Why Shoulder Surfing is Dangerous

Criminals who use shoulder surfing techniques seek to get sensitive personal and financial information, such as banking information, passwords, credit card numbers, or login credentials. The operators of such attacks may then use the stolen information to perform various cybercriminal activities, such as identity theft, fraud, or unlawful access to digital accounts.

In some instances, stolen data from shoulder surfing can be utilised as the starting point for a more significant cyberattack, including gaining illegal access to crucial company systems or networks. Additionally, these attacks commonly go unnoticed since they do not involve digital breaches or software.

However, the most dangerous aspect of shoulder surfing is that it is critical in public places like ATMs, retail counters, and transportation hubs, where people frequently enter PINs and passwords or scan personal information. Threat actors that employ such campaigns can quickly scan or steal codes and PINs.

Techniques For Shoulder Surfing

Shoulder-surfing attackers can use various tactics to steal information, ranging from direct observation to advanced technologies for more stealthy monitoring. Some common strategies include:

1. Direct Observation: Shoulder surfing involves standing near a victim and watching them enter sensitive information into their device, such as a smartphone or laptop.
2. Distance Monitoring: Attackers may position themselves farther away, using binoculars, cameras, or cellphones to capture victims inputting passwords or PINs.
3. Hidden Cameras: Criminals may install hidden cameras in cafes or co-working spaces to record keystrokes or screen activity.
4. Eavesdropping on Conversations: Shoulder surfing can also involve listening to or spying on private conversations in public areas where sensitive information is shared.

Types of Attacks Involving Shoulder Surfing

1. PIN Theft: A typical type of shoulder surfing occurs at ATMs, where fraudsters see or record customers entering their PINs.
2. Public Wi-Fi Vulnerability: Attackers may watch someone accessing their accounts when using public Wi-Fi networks.
3. Workplace Surveillance: In situations such as offices or co-working spaces, attackers may eavesdrop on or monitor coworkers while they enter passwords or critical company data.

How Can iZOOlogic Help My Company or Organisation?

iZOOlogic can provide solutions to mitigate the risks of Shoulder Surfing attacks through our Threat Advisory Services.

To learn more about how iZOOlogic can help protect your company’s sensitive data, schedule a demo.