Question

what is the meaning of the word covert as used in the passage? the central intelligence agency (cia) is an agency of the u.s. government. the cia sometimes conducts covert operations to gather intelligence using listening devices or satellite photography. not all information - gathering missions are secret, however. the cia also gathers information openly by listening to foreign radio programs, reading overseas newspapers, and watching foreign television news broadcasts. at a significant distance invisible or see - through global or all over the world hidden or undercover

Explanation:

The context mentions that not all information - gathering is secret, and covert operations are contrasted with open information - gathering. "Covert" means hidden or undercover in this context.

Answer:

hidden or undercover