On a train, an individual is watching a proprietary video on Joe’s laptop without his knowledge. Which of
the following does this describe?

A.
Tailgating

B.
Shoulder surfing

C.
Interference

D.
Illegal downloading

Explanation:
Looking at information on a computer screen without the computer user’s knowledge is known as
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.
Incorrect Answers:
A: Tailgating in IT security would be an unauthorized person following and authorized person into a
building or room such as a datacenter. If a building has a card reader where an authorized person can
hold up a card to the reader to unlock the door, someone tailgating could follow the authorized person
into the building by walking through the door before it closes and locks. Tailgating is not what is described
in this question.
C: There are many different types of interference. A common type of interference is something that can
affect a wireless signal. Interference is not what is described in this question.
D: Illegal downloading is the unauthorized downloading of content usually from the Internet. In this
question, the individual is watching a proprietary video on Joe’s laptop; the individual has not
downloaded it.

http://searchsecurity.techtarget.com/definition/shoulder-surfing