What is Shoulder Surfing?
ATM card scams are a growing concern in many countries, including India. Criminals use a variety of techniques to gain unauthorized access to individuals’ ATM cards and withdraw money from their accounts. One such technique is shoulder surfing, where scammers attempt to steal sensitive information such as ATM PINs, CVV numbers, and other details.
Shoulder surfing is a sneaky method of stealing information by looking over someone's shoulder without their knowledge. It's commonly done when people are using ATMs or their phones for transactions. In shoulder surfing, thieves position themselves next to someone and observe their actions.
How Shoulder Surfing is Carried Out?
As the name suggests, these thieves typically peek over the shoulder of an unsuspecting individual at an ATM or while they are occupied with their phone, in order to obtain sensitive information. They attempt to view personal details such as passwords and PIN numbers, which they later exploit for their own financial gain.
Shoulder surfing is often carried out in crowded places where it is easy for thieves to blend in and position themselves beside a person who is filling out a form, entering a PIN at an ATM, or using a calling card at a public pay phone. Additionally, shoulder surfing can also be conducted using technology like binoculars or other devices to enhance the thief's ability to gather information from a distance.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Shoulder Surfing
To protect yourself from shoulder surfing, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take preventive measures. Make a habit of concealing your screen and obstructing the view of the screen and keyboard from potential onlookers. Using your hand or body to shield the screen and keypad while entering your PIN at an ATM can add an extra layer of security. Additionally, consider using a privacy screen or cover for your phone or tablet when entering sensitive information in public.
Here are some additional tips to protect yourself from shoulder surfing:
- Never accept help from strangers at the ATM.
- Be alert to your surroundings and watch out for anyone suspicious who might be trying to see your screen.
- Use strong and unique passwords for all your accounts.
- Regularly monitor your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
Shoulder surfing is just one of the many techniques used by scammers to steal sensitive information from unsuspecting users for financial gain. By being aware of your surroundings, taking simple precautions, and regularly monitoring your accounts, you can protect yourself from this type of scam.
