Which of the Following Security Threats Involve Shoulder Surfing and Phone Phishing?
In today’s digital age, where technology has become an integral part of our lives, it is crucial to be aware of the various security threats that can compromise our personal information. Two such threats that pose a significant risk are shoulder surfing and phone phishing. Let’s explore these security threats and understand how they can impact our privacy and security.
Shoulder surfing is a method used by cybercriminals to obtain sensitive information by visually observing or eavesdropping on someone’s activities. This can occur in public places like coffee shops, airports, or even in crowded public transportation. By looking over someone’s shoulder, attackers can learn passwords, PINs, credit card details, or any other confidential information that the victim is inputting on their device.
Phone phishing, on the other hand, involves cybercriminals posing as legitimate entities to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information over the phone. They may pretend to be from a bank, government agency, or even a trusted service provider. By using social engineering techniques, scammers manipulate victims into sharing personal details such as account numbers, passwords, or social security numbers.
Now, let’s answer some common questions related to these security threats:
1. How can I protect myself from shoulder surfing?
To protect yourself, always be aware of your surroundings, shield your screen when entering sensitive information, and avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions.
2. What should I do if I suspect someone is shoulder surfing?
If you suspect someone is shoulder surfing, immediately cease entering any sensitive information and find a more secure location.
3. How can I identify phone phishing attempts?
Be cautious of unsolicited calls asking for personal information. Verify the caller’s identity independently and never provide sensitive data over the phone unless you initiated the call.
4. What should I do if I receive a suspicious phone call?
If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and independently contact the organization the caller claimed to be from to verify the legitimacy of the call.
5. Can shoulder surfing be prevented on mobile devices?
Yes, by using privacy screens or adjusting your device’s screen orientation, you can minimize the risk of shoulder surfing.
6. What are some red flags to watch out for during a phone call?
Red flags include urgent requests for personal information, unsolicited offers or prizes, and callers who become aggressive or threatening.
7. Are shoulder surfing and phone phishing only targeted at individuals?
No, these threats can also target businesses and organizations, attempting to gain access to sensitive company information or financial data.
8. Are there any legal consequences for shoulder surfing or phone phishing?
Yes, shoulder surfing and phone phishing are illegal activities, and perpetrators can face legal consequences if caught.
9. Can antivirus software protect against phone phishing?
Antivirus software alone may not protect against phone phishing, as it primarily focuses on detecting malware and viruses on your devices.
10. Is it safe to provide personal information over the phone if the caller seems trustworthy?
No, it is always safer to independently verify the caller’s identity and the purpose of the call before sharing any personal information.
11. How can I report incidents of shoulder surfing or phone phishing?
Report any incidents of shoulder surfing or phone phishing to the appropriate authorities, such as your local police department and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
By understanding the threats of shoulder surfing and phone phishing, we can take proactive measures to safeguard our personal information and protect ourselves from falling victim to cybercriminals. Stay vigilant, be cautious, and prioritize your online security to stay one step ahead of these potential threats.