A government worker secretly copies classified files that contain defense tactics information to an external drive. The government worker then gives the external drive to a corrupt organization. Which of the following best describes the motivation of the worker?

While data exfiltration refers to the unauthorized transfer of data from a computer or network, it lacks the specific connotation of intent associated with espionage. This term describes the act itself but does not encompass the underlying motivation of providing classified information to a corrupt organization.

Although financial gain could be a potential motivation for some individuals in similar scenarios, the question does not provide evidence that the worker's actions were driven by monetary incentives. The motivations for espionage can include ideology, loyalty to a group, or other non-financial factors, making this choice less accurate.

Blackmail involves coercing someone into acting against their interests, typically through threats of revealing damaging information. In this case, there is no indication that the worker was coerced or attempting to extort money or favors from the government or any other party, so this option does not apply.