Warrantless wiretapping refers to the practice of monitoring phone calls and electronic communications without obtaining a legal warrant. This method is often used by government agencies to gather intelligence, especially in national security contexts. The legality and ethics of such actions are frequently debated, as they can infringe on individual privacy rights. In the United States, the Patriot Act expanded the government's surveillance capabilities, allowing for warrantless wiretapping under certain conditions. Critics argue that this undermines civil liberties, while supporters claim it is essential for preventing terrorism and ensuring public safety.