Where did the word 'spy' come in? You criticized the labeling of Snowden as a "CIA agent". "Spy" is a different word with different meanings, not used by the article you criticized.
Snowden himself has used that word to describe his work.
And your example (someone involved in "covert" activity) fits the colloquial use of the term "spy".
In any case, this isn't an English lesson.
What I'm trying to say here is that Snowden wants the world to believe he was doing much more important work than he was actually doing. I don't think the public discourse is served by misstating his role within the "black" world.
He uncovered some wrongdoing but I don't buy the story that he was just a good American that is trying to right a wrong. He had an agenda.
And your example (someone involved in "covert" activity) fits the colloquial use of the term "spy".
In any case, this isn't an English lesson.
What I'm trying to say here is that Snowden wants the world to believe he was doing much more important work than he was actually doing. I don't think the public discourse is served by misstating his role within the "black" world.
He uncovered some wrongdoing but I don't buy the story that he was just a good American that is trying to right a wrong. He had an agenda.