What does the term 'eavesdropping' refer to in network security?

Eavesdropping in the context of network security specifically refers to the act of unauthorized interception or monitoring of data being transmitted over a network. This can involve listening in on messages, phone calls, or any data being sent in clear text across a medium, allowing malicious actors to capture sensitive information without the consent of the parties involved.

This practice raises significant security concerns, as attackers can glean confidential information such as passwords, personal information, or proprietary data simply by observing the communication happening in the network. In contrast, the other definitions provided in the alternatives relate to different aspects of network management and security, such as monitoring performance or ensuring compliance, which do not align with the unauthorized nature of eavesdropping.