Which technique bypasses physical security by following someone into a restricted area?

Which technique bypasses physical security by following someone into a restricted area?

• A. Dumpster diving
• B. Shoulder surfing
• C. Tailgating
• D. Piggybacking

Answer: (C)

Exploiting human behavior to slip into a secure area by closely following another person through a door is tailgating. This social tactic hinges on the normal flow of entry—someone with legitimate access opens the door, and an unauthorized person quietly follows to gain admission without proper authentication or independent clearance. Dumpster diving involves searching through trash for sensitive information, not gaining entry to a restricted space. Shoulder surfing is about watching someone enter credentials to steal information, not about physically entering behind them. Piggybacking is similar in concept but often implies the authorized person knowingly grants entry; the scenario here focuses on the act of following someone through to access the area, which is the hallmark of tailgating.

Exploiting human behavior to slip into a secure area by closely following another person through a door is tailgating. This social tactic hinges on the normal flow of entry—someone with legitimate access opens the door, and an unauthorized person quietly follows to gain admission without proper authentication or independent clearance.

Dumpster diving involves searching through trash for sensitive information, not gaining entry to a restricted space. Shoulder surfing is about watching someone enter credentials to steal information, not about physically entering behind them. Piggybacking is similar in concept but often implies the authorized person knowingly grants entry; the scenario here focuses on the act of following someone through to access the area, which is the hallmark of tailgating.