Which term is used to describe the passive collection of data in packet capture programs?

The term that accurately describes the passive collection of data in packet capture programs is often referred to as "sniffing the Ethernet." This phrase highlights the practice of intercepting and logging network traffic that is being transmitted over a network. Packet capture techniques enable cybersecurity professionals to observe and analyze traffic patterns, detect anomalies, or diagnose issues without actively altering the data being sent.

While other terms like network monitoring and packet analysis also relate to understanding network behavior and traffic, "sniffing the Ethernet" specifically emphasizes the method of quietly observing the packets being transmitted in real-time from a passive perspective. This method is essential for determining potential security vulnerabilities or gaining insights into the data flows within an Industrial Automation and Control System (IACS).

Data harvesting differs in context, implying an active collection or manipulation of data, which does not align with the passive nature described in the question. Therefore, the precise terminology of "sniffing the Ethernet" aptly captures the essence of passive data collection in the realm of network analysis.