Wiretaps are electronic devices used to intercept and record telephone conversations. There are many synonyms for wiretaps, including phone taps, electronic surveillance, bugging, eavesdropping, and wire surveillance. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they each have slightly different connotations. For example, bugging and eavesdropping imply a more covert or unauthorized way of obtaining information, while wire surveillance and electronic surveillance may refer to legal forms of monitoring. Regardless of the term used, wiretapping is a serious invasion of privacy and is subject to strict legal regulations. The use of wiretaps is only allowed for specific purposes, such as criminal investigations or national security concerns.