Which term refers to legally intercepting data communications between endpoints for surveillance?

Which term refers to legally intercepting data communications between endpoints for surveillance?

• A. Wiretapping
• B. Active Wiretapping
• C. Passive Wiretapping
• D. Lawful interception

Answer: (D)

Lawful interception is the authorized monitoring of communications by authorities under legal authority. It specifically refers to intercepting data between endpoints as part of sanctioned surveillance, typically with warrants or legal orders. This distinguishes it from the general idea of wiretapping, which can carry a negative or illegal connotation unless properly authorized. Active versus passive wiretapping describes whether the interceptor alters the data or only observes; the essential point here is that the interception is legally sanctioned, which is captured by the term lawful interception.

Lawful interception is the authorized monitoring of communications by authorities under legal authority. It specifically refers to intercepting data between endpoints as part of sanctioned surveillance, typically with warrants or legal orders. This distinguishes it from the general idea of wiretapping, which can carry a negative or illegal connotation unless properly authorized. Active versus passive wiretapping describes whether the interceptor alters the data or only observes; the essential point here is that the interception is legally sanctioned, which is captured by the term lawful interception.