What is the term for observing someone to gain access to confidential information?

The term for observing someone to gain access to confidential information is shoulder surfing. This practice involves watching someone enter sensitive data, such as passwords or personal identification numbers, typically from a close proximity, allowing the observer to collect this information without the target's knowledge.

Shoulder surfing is particularly concerning in public spaces where individuals may be using laptops, tablets, or smartphones, making them vulnerable to unwanted observation. It highlights the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings and taking precautions, such as shielding screens or being mindful of who is nearby, especially when dealing with sensitive information.

The other terms mentioned refer to different tactics. Tailgating describes unauthorized entry following an authorized person, dumpster diving involves searching through waste to find confidential information, and social engineering encompasses a broader category of manipulative tactics aimed at tricking individuals into divulging sensitive information. Each of these tactics operates differently but does not specifically relate to the act of observing for information, which is the defining characteristic of shoulder surfing.