Using packet sniffing tools, hackers can spy on people and steal their personal data, usually with the goal of identity theft or another form of fraud.Ĭapture private info like usernames, passwords, credit card numbers, etc. Hackers use sniffer software to capture, decode, and analyze packets of data sent over a network using TCP/IP or other protocols.

To capture data packets traveling through a network Here are some of the many legal ways network sniffers are used by cybersecurity professionals, system administrators, and network engineers: Most legitimate sniffers are used to maintain the smooth flow of traffic through a network. Unfortunately, today’s hackers can take advantage of sniffing software that’s available online. Sniffers were originally designed to be used by professional network engineers and system administrators to monitor traffic and ensure their networks stayed safe. What is network sniffing software used for? While sniffers aren't actually viruses, they can be packaged with malware and used by hackers to spy on your online activity, recording everything you’re doing, including your usernames and passwords, credit card details, and other private information.

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