An informant is a person who provides information to authorities, often about criminal activities or other relevant matters. They can be individuals from various backgrounds, including witnesses, insiders, or even members of a criminal organization. Informants play a crucial role in investigations, helping law enforcement agencies like the FBI or police gather intelligence and build cases against suspects. Informants may receive incentives for their cooperation, such as reduced sentences or financial rewards. However, their involvement can also pose risks, as they may face retaliation from those they inform against. The use of informants is a common practice in fields like law enforcement and intelligence.