Espionage or spying is the act of obtaining secret or confidential information from non-disclosed sources or divulging of the same without the permission of the holder of the information. ... This is the job of the spy (espionage agent). Spies can then return information such as the size and strength of enemy forces.

What are spies used for?

In the intelligence world, a spy is strictly defined as someone used to steal secrets for an intelligence organization. Also called an agent or asset, a spy is not a professional intelligence officer, and doesn't usually receive formal training (though may be taught basic tradecraft).

What do secret spy agents do?

The most common responsibilities of a secret service agent may include investigating and preventing financial crimes, analyzing and averting computer-based threats and providing protection for high-profile government officials. ... Protect buildings or act as security at events that require a national level of protection.