Is it right to look at someone's computer screen while he/she use it?

Question

I am bothered by family members and colleagues who do that, even if they mean no harm. But is it honestly wrong or inpolite to look at someone else's screen? What are the ethical or practical reasons?

If you're only watching a video, doesn't it make the computer screen something like the TV screen? And that would be considered a fairly public activity, wouldn't it? (at least in the home) Why should computer screens be any different?

Answer 1

NOT AT ALL!! Coincidentally, I'm answering your post at a library, and the computers are placed quite close together. So close you can even glance at the next person's screen!!
Anyway, no, it's not right to look at someone's screen. I wouldn't say it's wrong, but it IS very impolite, and it shows a lack of manners, and respect for the person's privacy (even if he/she is just reading the latest gossip!). Looking at one's screen while he/she is using it is the same as someone peeping into your notebook, or diary while you're jotting down whatever it is you jot down in your notebook, or diary! Wouldn't you call that an invasion of privacy?? If not, you cannot ignore the fact that the act is utterly rude!
Watching a video on your comp doesn't necessarily make it public! If you bought a newspaper and sat to read it in the park, would it be considered public? Would it then be normal that one comes over, sits next to you, and tries to read the paper too??
The bottom line is, no matter how tempted you might be, how interesting the other one's screen might be, DO NOT LOOK AT IT!! Unless of course the person invites you to look! But otherwise...NO WAY! IT'S UGLY MANNERS! If someone peeps into your screen, politely say, "Do you mind?"

Answer 2

It's halfway between being okay and rude.

Technically it's called "looking over someone's shoulder" and applies to books, magazines, newspapers, handheld devices, and computer monitors.

To stop it the correct thing to say is: "Please stop looking over my shoulder."

The reason it's undesirable is that the above-mentioned devices and reading materials generally require concentration and focus to be used efficiently. Having another human's head and body right beside you is distracting.

If you wish to look at what someone else is doing, then you should always ask permission first. The correct form is, "Do you mind if I look over your shoulder? I am very interested in___"

By being polite you may possibly engage the person in an interesting conversation instead of offending him. If he hints that he would rather you not look by saying something like "I need to focus on this. It has to be done by noon," then just say "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt you," and walk away.

Answer 3

Make ur family members see reasons with u, it is very wrong to look at someones computer screen whether the person is there or not, it is impolite, and courtesy demands u don't pry into others privacy, which includes computer screen, organizer, dairy etc. except when called to do so.

Answer 4

My roomate always tries to walk up behind me when he hears me typing fast, he knows I am chatting, should I feel guilty about chatting all kind of things and maybe getting caught if it is something very personal? It is my computer and I pay rent, I do wish I had some privacy. Sometimes I never know where a chat will lead as far as conversation goes. So, no, it is not right, I wouldn't do that to someone else.

Answer 5

I agree, it's rude and an invasion of privacy especially at home. At work is a bit different unless you are on a break or something, but still, they'd have to know that then wouldn't they? And what are they doing looking at your screen anyway? (Bosses have automatic immunity for obvious reasons...) I think generally it is rude not to mention nosey.

Answer 6

Well, judging from your question you sound young.
If its your mum and dad that look, then i think their only checking for your safety.
However, I understand that everyone needs privacy and you should make sure they know that you arent going to do anything dangerous like meeting people from the net.
Maybe then they will trust you more.

Answer 7

I think if the person wants their privacy then they are entitled to it. Just tell people it makes yuo uncomfortable.

I don't think it is"right " though....some people are exhibitionsits and enjoy others looking at their screen.

Answer 8

It is extremely impolite! Even worse, you're doing an email and someone is standing over your shoulder saying "really, I didn't know that!" Aaarrrgh...it's one of my pet peeves and I have been known to turn around and say 'must you lurk?'

Answer 9

This one guy was looking on my laptop while I was on an airplane in flight. I turned off the laptop, closed it, and then hit him across the face with it. Problem solved.

Answer 10

Get privacy screen.