tampering

[tam-per-ing]

noun

1. the act or process of changing, damaging, or interfering with something, especially with intent to falsify, cheat, or defraud.

   Data transmitted over an SSL connection cannot be forged without the two parties becoming immediately aware of the tampering.

   In a clear case of tampering, players were caught using sandpaper to alter the ball.

2. the act or process of dealing secretively, improperly, or underhandedly with someone.

   I had a duty to report the witness tampering to the judge.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tampering¹

tamper ¹ ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Photos, screenshots, and voice recordings can all be uploaded and saved privately, protecting crucial evidence from deletion or tampering.

Read more on BBC

The judge decreed there were “reasonable grounds to believe that such disclosure” to Mr. Cruz “will result in destruction of or tampering with evidence, intimidation of potential witnesses and serious jeopardy to the investigation.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

There is plenty of material to work with: incidents of witness intimidation and jury tampering; pre-emptive settlement offers climbing to eight figures; and even the recent California wildfires, which disrupt the lives of all concerned.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

A Colombian court on Tuesday overturned the witness tampering conviction of influential ex-president Alvaro Uribe, who had been sentenced to 12 years' house arrest in a decision condemned by the United States.

Read more on Barron's

Casinos look for card marking and tampering through security footage, deck changes and table inspections.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• intrusive 
• meddling 
• nosy 
• pushy