Wiretapper Meaning: Definition and Examples
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wiretapper
[ˈwaɪərˌtæpər ]
Definition
surveillance, espionage
A wiretapper is a person who secretly listens to or records electronic communications, usually for the purpose of gathering information. This act is typically associated with law enforcement or espionage, but it can also be executed by private individuals or organizations without legal authorization.
Synonyms
eavesdropper, interceptor, snoop.
Examples of usage
- The police used a wiretapper to monitor the suspect's conversations.
- In the movie, the main character was a skilled wiretapper who uncovered a conspiracy.
- Illegal wiretapping can lead to serious legal repercussions.
- The journalist hired a wiretapper to gather evidence against the corrupt politician.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In many countries, wiretapping requires a warrant or legal permission to protect privacy rights.
- Illegal wiretapping can lead to severe penalties, including criminal charges and fines.
Pop Culture
- 'Wiretapping' has been a common theme in movies and TV shows, often depicting detectives and spies investigating crimes.
- Popular series like 'The Wire' and films like 'Enemy of the State' explore the implications of surveillance and privacy.
Technology
- With advancements in technology, wiretapping methods have evolved, making it easier to monitor communications digitally.
- Modern wiretapping can occur through both traditional phone lines and advanced internet communications.
Ethics and Privacy
- Wiretapping raises significant ethical questions about the balance between security and privacy rights.
- Organizations and activists often debate the extent to which surveillance helps prevent crime versus its invasion of personal privacy.
Origin of 'wiretapper'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'wiretap' originated from the practice of tapping into telephone wires to listen in on conversations.
- The use of the word dates back to the early 20th century when telephone networks became widely available.
The term 'wiretapper' originates from the early twentieth century, incorporating the word 'wire' which refers to the electrical conductors used for telecommunication and 'tap' which means to secretly connect to a system to listen in on conversations. The practice of wiretapping became prominent as telecommunication technology evolved, particularly with the invention of the telephone. In the 1920s and 1930s, police and intelligence agencies began to use wiretapping as a legitimate tool for surveillance in criminal investigations. However, with the rise in privacy concerns and the development of laws governing electronic communications, wiretapping has also come to be associated with illegal activity when conducted without proper authorization. This dual nature of wiretapping—both a law enforcement tool and a method for invasion of privacy—has contributed to ongoing debates about civil liberties and the extent of governmental surveillance in society.