Watch Out for Shoulder Surfers When Using Devices in Public

Introduction

Shoulder surfing is when someone tries to obtain your personal information by looking over your shoulder while you use a device in public. It is an invasion of privacy and can lead to identity theft or other cybercrimes if the shoulder surfer obtains sensitive information. With the proliferation of smartphones, tablets and laptops, shoulder surfing is becoming more common. As a user of mobile devices in public places, you need to be aware of this threat and take steps to protect your information.

The Threat of Shoulder Surfers

Who Are Shoulder Surfers?

Shoulder surfers can be anyone in public places like coffee shops, airports, trains, etc. Some common categories include:

• Thieves and scam artists who want to steal identities, login credentials or financial information.
• Hackers who want to break into devices or accounts.
• Curious onlookers and busybodies who sneak a peek at screens.

Why Do They Do It?

• To gain unauthorized access to devices and accounts using login IDs and passwords.
• To steal identities or commit cybercrimes like financial fraud using personal information.
• Sometimes just to be nosy and see what others are doing.

Information Vulnerable to Shoulder Surfers

Sensitive information visible on your screen that shoulder surfers can exploit includes:

• Usernames and passwords
• Social security numbers
• Bank account and payment card details
• Personal communications like messages or emails
• Contact lists and other confidential data

Protecting Yourself from Shoulder Surfers

Here are some tips to avoid shoulder surfing when using your phone, laptop or tablet in public:

Be Aware of Surroundings

• Watch out for people trying to look over your shoulder or at your screen.
• Avoid using devices when someone is standing or sitting close behind you. Politely ask them to move or move yourself.
• Position yourself in a way that blocks onlookers’ views of your screen.

Use Privacy Filters

• Privacy screens or filters for your device prevent view from certain angles.
• Limit viewing angles so only you can see screen contents straight on.

Adjust Device Settings

• Decrease screen brightness so it is harder to view from afar.
• Shorten auto-lock times so screen turns off quickly when idle.

Use Anonymous Browsing

• Enable private browsing mode in your browser to avoid local data storage.
• Avoid logging into accounts while in public view.

Be Wary of Public WiFi

• Public networks carry risks of snooping. Avoid accessing sensitive apps and sites.
• Use VPN service to encrypt connection and hide activity if needed.

Additional Measures

• Face back to wall to limit visible angles.
• Type passwords discretely or use biometric logins where possible.
• Cover hand when entering sensitive data.
• Carry screen privacy filters to attach when required.

What to Do If You Suspect Shoulder Surfing

If you catch someone shoulder surfing:

• Confront them if you feel comfortable and end your task.
• Shield screen with your body and exit app or website.
• Report to staff if in public establishment like café.
• Change passwords and monitor accounts for suspicious activity.
• Contact institutions like bank or employer if credentials were visible.

While being vigilant is important, avoid overt paranoia. With proper precautions, you can comfortably use devices in public without surrendering privacy. But staying alert to surroundings and using common sense security will help protect sensitive data from prying eyes.

Conclusion

Shoulder surfing poses a legitimate risk when using mobile devices in public areas. The threat comes from identity thieves, scammers, hackers and curious onlookers trying to peek at your screen. Protect yourself by staying aware of surroundings, using privacy tools, limiting information visible, and taking action if you catch someone spying. With caution and common sense, you can use your devices on-the-go without becoming a victim of this invasion of privacy.