Espionage
Espionage is the practice of obtaining confidential or sensitive information covertly, often for political, military, or financial purposes. It typically involves gathering intelligence from governments, organizations, or individuals without their consent or knowledge. Espionage can be conducted by agents or operatives, who may use various methods such as infiltration, surveillance, or electronic eavesdropping. The information gathered through espionage can inform strategic decision-making, reveal competitive advantages, or expose vulnerabilities. While often associated with state-sponsored activities, espionage can also be carried out by private companies or individuals seeking to gain an upper hand or access to proprietary data.