What is the technique used to discreetly gather information without raising suspicion?

The technique of elicitation is specifically designed to discreetly gather information without raising suspicion. This method involves engaging someone in a conversation in a way that allows the individual to reveal information naturally. The key aspect of elicitation is that it does not involve direct questioning or suspicion-inducing tactics; instead, it relies on rapport-building and casual dialogue to encourage the other person to share what they know.

Elicitation can be particularly effective because it often occurs in informal settings, making the targeted individual less aware that they are providing sensitive or valuable information. This approach can be used in various contexts, including intelligence gathering or insider threat scenarios, where understanding subtle cues and effective communication is vital.

In contrast, other techniques like interrogation are overt and typically involve pressure or direct questioning aimed at obtaining information, which could make individuals defensive. Hypnosis, while an interesting psychological tool, is not practical or reliable for gathering information in security contexts. Surveying, on the other hand, pertains to systematic data collection from a group rather than one-on-one information gathering and does not focus on discreet personal interactions. This emphasizes why elicitation is considered the best method for gathering information subtly and successfully.