Wiretapped: meaning, definitions and examples
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wiretapped
[ˈwaɪərˌtæpt ]
Definition
phone surveillance
Wiretapped refers to the act of placing a listening device on a telephone line or using other electronic means to intercept and record conversations without the knowledge of the parties involved. This practice is often associated with law enforcement surveillance, but it can also be applied in unauthorized situations.
Synonyms
eavesdropped, intercepted, monitored.
Examples of usage
- The police had wiretapped the suspect's phone.
- They found out he was being wiretapped by a rival company.
- The FBI wiretapped several conversations during the investigation.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'wiretap' comes from the practice where wires, connected to phone lines, were tapped to listen in on conversations.
- It became popular in the mid-20th century, coinciding with the rise of modern communication technology.
Legal Aspects
- In many countries, wiretapping is regulated by law, requiring permission from a judge to ensure privacy rights.
- The Wiretap Act of 1968 in the United States established illegal wiretapping as a crime, setting guidelines for law enforcement.
Pop Culture
- Wiretapping is a common theme in movies and TV shows, often portrayed as a tool for detectives and spies.
- Famous films like 'The Conversation' explore the ethical implications of surveillance through wiretapping.
Technology
- Advancements in technology have evolved wiretapping methods from physical wires to digital signals, including internet communications.
- Modern wiretapping can include accessing data through smartphones, making it easier yet more controversial.
Psychology
- Feeling of being wiretapped can lead to paranoia, affecting personal relationships and mental well-being.
- The fear of surveillance can influence behavior, causing people to act differently when they believe they are being watched.
Translations
Translations of the word "wiretapped" in other languages:
🇵🇹 grampeado
🇮🇳 जासूसी किया गया
🇩🇪 abgehört
🇮🇩 disadap
🇺🇦 прослуханий
🇵🇱 podsłuchiwany
🇯🇵 盗聴された
🇫🇷 mis sur écoute
🇪🇸 intervenido
🇹🇷 dinlenmiş
🇰🇷 도청된
🇸🇦 مراقب
🇨🇿 odposloucháno
🇸🇰 odpočúvaný
🇨🇳 窃听的
🇸🇮 prisluškovan
🇮🇸 hlustað
🇰🇿 тыңдалған
🇬🇪 მოსმენა
🇦🇿 dinlənilmiş
🇲🇽 intervenido