Primary definition
an ethical hacking technique used to gather as much data as possible about a specific targeted computer system, an infrastructure and networks to identify opportunities to penetrate them
Also known asreconnaissance · network mapping · information gathering · OSINT
1 sources cited4 related termsReviewed Aug 10, 2026
— NICCS GlossaryView source
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
NICCS
an ethical hacking technique used to gather as much data as possible about a specific targeted computer system, an infrastructure and networks to identify opportunities to penetrate them
NICCS Glossary · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Footprinting. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 13, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/footprinting
Sources
1 cited · last checked Aug 10, 2026
01
NICCS Glossary
NICCS Glossary
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.
Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.