Wiretapped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📞
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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'wiretapped'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The term 'wiretap' originated in the early 20th century, combining the word 'wire,' which signifies the electrical wiring used for telecommunication, and 'tap,' which implies accessing or drawing a resource from a source. The concept of wiretapping emerged with the advancement of telephone technology, leading to concerns about privacy and security. The first recorded instances of wiretapping were associated with law enforcement efforts to prevent crime, enhance national security, and gather evidence. Over the decades, the use of wiretaps evolved, becoming a contentious issue that raises questions about civil liberties, privacy rights, and government oversight. Legal regulations surrounding wiretapping have been enacted in many jurisdictions, establishing that warrants are typically required to conduct such surveillance. Despite these regulations, the practice of wiretapping continues to stir debate in modern society as technology advances, particularly with digital communications and the Internet.