PEEK & SPY

PEEK & SPY is a software solution designed specifically for OpenVMS systems, allowing authorized users to monitor and interact with the screen contents of remote terminals. According to the vendor, PEEK & SPY is suitable for organizations of all sizes that utilize OpenVMS systems. This versatile tool caters to the needs of system managers, IT support teams, network administrators, security professionals, as well as training and education institutions.

Key Features

Easy Installation: According to the vendor, PEEK & SPY offers a straightforward installation process with simple commands and "Quick Install" instructions for convenient setup.

Screen Viewing and Interaction: PEEK & SPY provides real-time screen mirroring, allowing authorized users to view the contents of remote terminals. The vendor claims that privileged users can also interact with the watched terminal by entering keyboard input, facilitating troubleshooting and problem resolution.

Support for Multiple Connections: PEEK & SPY supports various network protocols such as DECnet remote connections, TCP/IP, and DECwindows Motif, enabling privileged users to monitor and interact with terminals across different network environments, according to the vendor.

Troubleshooting and Remote Assistance: The vendor states that PEEK & SPY serves as a valuable troubleshooting tool, providing a remote view of the user's screen and enabling system managers to effectively address user problems without the need for physical travel. The privileged user can grant input control to the user while providing instructions, facilitating interactive support and assistance.

Documentation of Security Breaches: With the SPY component of PEEK & SPY, privileged users can observe and document all actions performed by a user. The vendor highlights that PEEK & SPY offers four journaling options to create a record of terminal sessions, providing documented proof and a permanent record of any security breaches. In case of a security breach, the privileged user can lock out the unauthorized user's keyboard input, preventing further unauthorized actions.

Configurable Command Sequences: PEEK & SPY supports standard VMS syntax for commands to start the programs. Additionally, users have the flexibility to configure hot-key command sequences, allowing them to perform specific functions with PEEK & SPY through command line qualifiers or in a logical name table, according to the vendor.

User Privilege and Security Handling: PEEK & SPY is installed as a privileged image, enabling users to utilize the program without requiring additional privileges. The vendor emphasizes that explicit permission from the person being watched is necessary for a non-privileged user to observe their activities. However, a watcher with both SYSPRV and SECURITY privileges does not require explicit permission. PEEK & SPY does not rely on any special drivers, as stated by the vendor.

Compatibility with Terminal Emulation Programs: PEEK & SPY can effectively monitor and mirror screens generated on the node where it resides. According to the vendor, this capability allows PEEK & SPY to observe and capture activities on terminal emulation programs running on PCs, provided that the screens are generated on the node.

Unlimited Users: PEEK & SPY allows for unlimited simultaneous users, as claimed by the vendor. This means that multiple users can access and utilize PEEK & SPY concurrently, catering to the needs of organizations with a high number of users.