Packet sniffing is a technique whereby packet data flowing across the network is detected and observed. Network administrators use packet sniffing tools to monitor and validate network traffic, while hackers may use similar tools for nefarious purposes.

Do hackers use packet sniffing?

Hackers, on the other hand, use packet-sniffing software (which is available free online!) to break into company networks and steal data. With it, they are virtually able to eavesdrop on any unencrypted information that's being exchanged between computers and traveling on a network.

Where does packet sniffing occur?

When any data has to be transmitted over the computer network, it is broken down into smaller units at the sender's node called data packets and reassembled at receiver's node in original format.