Which statement describes covert online activity?

• A. Covert online activity is the same as overt.
• B. Covert online activity occurs when personnel attempt to conceal their true identity and/or utilize a covert online profile to engage a person or organization via social media.
• C. Covert online activity is only used for entertainment.
• D. Covert online activity requires consent from supervisor.

Answer: (B)

Covert online activity means concealing your true identity online and using a hidden or covert profile to interact with a person or organization on social media. This approach is used to observe, gather information, or engage targets without revealing who you are, which helps prevent tipping them off and preserves the integrity of an investigation or operation. It’s different from overt activity, where identity and purpose are transparent. It’s not primarily for entertainment, and while such activity is conducted under agency policy and authorization, it isn’t simply about getting explicit supervisor consent as a blanket rule.