What term describes the act of looking over someone's shoulder to view sensitive information?

The act of looking over someone's shoulder to view sensitive information is specifically known as "shoulder surfing." This term describes the technique where an individual observes someone else as they enter sensitive data, such as passwords or personal identification numbers, often in public places. This method can be a significant security risk because it allows unauthorized individuals to gain access to confidential information simply by being in close proximity.

In contrast, eavesdropping typically refers to listening in on private conversations rather than visually observing sensitive data being inputted or displayed. Spyware is a type of malicious software designed to gather information from a computer or network without the user's knowledge, and social engineering refers to manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information through deceptive tactics. Therefore, shoulder surfing is the most accurate description of the act of observing someone entering sensitive information from behind.