What term describes collecting sensitive information from someone else’s trash, including items like bills or notes?

• A. Impersonation
• B. Shoulder Surfing
• C. Eavesdropping
• D. Dumpster Diving

Answer: (D)

Dumpster diving is the act of rummaging through someone’s discarded trash to locate sensitive information. It focuses on physical data left in waste, such as bills, notes, receipts, or other documents that reveal personal or financial details. This method exploits the fact that not all information is securely disposed of, making it possible to collect data without breaching digital defenses. The other techniques describe ways to access information in different contexts: impersonation involves pretending to be someone else, shoulder surfing is peeking at data over a person’s shoulder, and eavesdropping is listening in on conversations. Emphasizing proper disposal, like shredding documents and securely destroying sensitive materials, helps prevent this risk.