Eavesdropping attacks occur when hackers intercept, delete, or modify data that is transmitted between devices. Also known as sniffing or snooping, this process typically sees attackers exploit unsecured or open network communications and unencrypted data, which enables them to access data in transit between devices. Hackers can also eavesdrop by placing bugs on telephones, which allow them to intercept and record communication. They can also take advantage of poor security practices, such as the use of weak passwords and unpatched software, to gain a route into corporate networks and steal sensitive data.