Liliputin-3757

Counterintelligence job is nothing else but a Whack-a-mole-game ... "
Allen Welsh Dulles




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The term "Whac-a-mole" (or "Whack-a-mole") is used colloquially to depict a situation characterized by a series of repetitious and futile tasks, where the successful completion of one just yields another popping up elsewhere.

In computer programming/debugging it refers to the prospect of fixing a bug causing a new one to appear as a result. In an Internet context, it refers to the challenge of fending off recurring spammers, vandals, pop-up ads, malware, ransomware, and other distractions, annoyances, and harm.

In law enforcement it refers to criminal activity popping up in another part of an area after increased enforcement in one district reduces it there. In a military context it refers to ostensibly inferior opposing troops continuing to appear after previous waves have been eliminated.[citation needed]

It has also been applied to fake news, where as soon as one story is debunked another appears elsewhere – or sooner.

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mole
[m;l]

NOUN
a small burrowing insectivorous mammal with dark velvety fur, a long muzzle, and very small eyes.
synonyms:
mouldwarp;·;mouldywarp
a spy who achieves over a long period an important position within the security defenses of a country.
synonyms:
spy;·;agent;·;secret agent;·;