eli5: How do ‘Sleeper Agents” work?
In: 2
A sleeper agent is a spy who is placed within a target country or organization where they live and work undercover for extended periods of time, usually years, before being activated to carry out their mission. They may be placed there by their own government (as in the case of double agents) or by a foreign government.
They are are a thing because their long-term cover gives them time to build trust and gather information that can be used against their target. They can also be used to carry out sabotage or other disruptive activities.
They usually have strict orders and are only to be activated under specific circumstances. They may be activated by a phone call, email, or other type of communication from their handler.
Latest Answers