Technology has advanced in many ways over the past few years, but that also means that theft has advanced alongside it. With mobile transactions more prevalent, it’s more likely that thieves would target a mobile phone. According to the Met Police, approximately 250 phones were stolen every day in London in 2022. It also helps snatchers that a mobile phone is smaller than a purse or bag, making it an easy target for a quick getaway.
Aside from the ease of stealing, snatchers and pickpockets may often observe their potential victims. Doing so will enable them to spy on important details like PIN codes and passwords. This action is referred to as shoulder surfing. Shoulder surfing is defined as the act of discreetly observing someone using a device (such as a laptop or ATM) to obtain valuable information, typically credentials like a PIN or password.
Lurking in the crowd
We spend an excessive amount of time glued to our phones. After all, it does more than capture memories by storing photos and videos, which also makes it easy for others to shoulder surf. Most people do digital banking instead of wasting time queuing in banks. Group meetings can be done via virtual meeting rooms, and confidential company information may be found on group chats joined through devices.
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Shoulder surfing is not limited to gadgets; it may also be done in ATMs and payment terminals. The suspect would watch a person enter their PIN code to steal the contents of their card later on. When people shop, their credit card details may be visible to other people while swiping. Some snatchers would take photos or videos of the card secretly, allowing them to review the details at a later time. While there is no guaranteed way to avoid thieves and robbers, we can take steps to avoid being put in a dangerous situation and being a target. Here are some ways to be more vigilant in public.
Be wary of the surroundings
The opportunity to commit a crime can present itself anywhere and anytime. When entering a dimly lit or suspicious area, make sure that all personal belongings are secured in a safe place. Focus on the destination rather than being immersed in your digital devices to avoid having someone shoulder surf for your information. When dispensing money, take a look around before approaching the ATM and cover one hand with the other when entering your PIN code. For credit cards, make sure your card is within eyesight at all times and cover the important details from prying eyes when paying at the counter.
Take advantage of biometric features
Use the biometric features of your phone with fingerprints or face recognition so you can unlock your phone in public without worrying about someone shoulder surfing for your passcode. However, you should still be careful as some might just be waiting for an opportune time to snatch your phone away after it gets unlocked. Countries like the Philippines have this issue, as a lot of crimes involve motorcycle-riding criminals snatching bags and phones off unsuspecting victims.
Prevention and precaution
Avoid using mobile phones in public as much as possible, especially if your phone is brand new, as it might attract unwanted attention. If using a device is necessary, find a safer spot to do it and make sure no one is looking when entering confidential data. It would also be helpful to avoid sketchy and dark places, as these types of areas are where crime is prevalent. Being aware of a place’s reputation would help one navigate properly and safely. You could also check into options for privacy screens that work on handheld devices as much as desktop displays in the office.
Take action
If worse comes to worst and a shoulder surfer has successfully snatched your phone, call your service provider and have them block the mobile number immediately. Most mobile brands also offer to delete everything remotely or retrieve your number, so you don’t need to get a new mobile number.
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Do this as soon as possible to avoid shoulder surfers from granting access to personal information on your device. Secure all the important data, like digital banking credentials, and immediately change all passwords. It’s also best that you file a report about your stolen phone by providing the IMEA or serial number of your device. That way, there’s a chance that your phone can be traced.
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Max Bender.
Sources: Yasmin Rufo (BBC) / Land Transportation Office
