A computer program designed to intercept and analyze network traffic, enabling users to capture and inspect data packets flowing across a network (i.e. internet). People use packet sniffers for
troubleshooting, network analysis, but more often than not it is used for unauthorized purposes such as
eavesdropping and gathering sensitive
information on an unsecured network (think public WiFi hotspots). Popular packet sniffer programs include Wireshark, Tcpdump and Snort.
Concerned about his roommate's secretive behavior, Mark decided to employ a packet sniffer program on their shared Wi-Fi network, hoping to uncover any hidden online
activities or
personal information being intercepted without consent.