Aural Eavesdropping

A security attack in which an unauthorized person overhears sensitive information such as passwords, PINs, or personal data being spoken aloud. This is a particular concern for people who are blind or have low vision because screen readers announce all on-screen content audibly, including password characters as they are typed. Even when screen readers mask password output (e.g., saying "bullet" for each character), the number of characters and typing rhythm can reveal information. Aural eavesdropping extends beyond screen readers — voice assistants, audio feedback on ATMs and kiosks, and phone calls in public spaces all create opportunities for others to overhear credentials. Research shows that blind users are significantly more concerned about aural eavesdropping than low vision users, and this vulnerability is one reason many visually impaired people prefer biometric authentication methods like fingerprints that do not involve audible input.