Wiretap: meaning, definitions and examples
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wiretap
[ ˈwaɪərˌtæp ]
surveillance method
A wiretap refers to the practice of connecting a listening device to a telephone line to monitor conversations without the knowledge of those involved. This technique is often employed by law enforcement agencies to gather evidence during investigations. Wiretapping can be controversial due to privacy concerns, and it is typically regulated by law to ensure it is conducted legally. The term can also extend to electronic surveillance of other types of communication.
Synonyms
eavesdropping, interception, monitoring.
Examples of usage
- The police obtained a wiretap to investigate the suspect.
- Her conversations were monitored through a wiretap.
- The FBI was granted permission for a wiretap on the criminal's phone.
conduct surveillance
To wiretap means to install a device that intercepts and records telephone conversations or other communications without the consent of the parties. Law enforcement may wiretap to gather crucial evidence regarding criminal activity, while businesses might use it to protect trade secrets. However, wiretapping is subject to strict legal regulations in many jurisdictions, requiring warrants and justifiable cause.
Synonyms
eavesdrop, intercept, monitor.
Examples of usage
- The detectives planned to wiretap the suspect's phone.
- They were caught trying to wiretap the office.
- To wiretap someone requires legal authorization.
Translations
Translations of the word "wiretap" in other languages:
🇵🇹 escuta telefónica
🇮🇳 टेप रिकॉर्डिंग
🇩🇪 Abhörung
🇮🇩 penyadapan
🇺🇦 прослушка
🇵🇱 podsłuch
🇯🇵 盗聴
🇫🇷 écoute téléphonique
🇪🇸 escucha telefónica
🇹🇷 dinleme
🇰🇷 도청
🇸🇦 التنصت
🇨🇿 odposlech
🇸🇰 odpočúvanie
🇨🇳 窃听
🇸🇮 prisluškovanje
🇮🇸 hlustun
🇰🇿 тыңшылық
🇬🇪 მოსმენა
🇦🇿 dinləmə
🇲🇽 escucha telefónica
Etymology
The term 'wiretap' originated in the early 20th century, combining the word 'wire', which refers to the electrical lines necessary for telephone communications, with 'tap', which means to access. The practice of wiretapping became increasingly common as technology advanced and the telephone became a widespread means of communication. Early wiretapping methods involved physically connecting a device to a phone line, while modern techniques may include digital surveillance and hacking of electronic devices. The legality of wiretapping varies by country and region, with many governments establishing specific laws and regulations to control its use, particularly regarding privacy rights. The term has evolved and come to encompass a variety of unauthorized surveillance techniques beyond mere telephone monitoring.