Which of the following techniques involves probing the target to gather information?

The technique that involves probing the target to gather information is active gathering. This method is characterized by direct interaction with the target system or network to collect data. It often includes approaches such as port scanning, network mapping, and sending specific requests to systems to elicit responses that can reveal valuable information regarding vulnerabilities and configurations.

Active gathering is crucial for security assessment and penetration testing, as it helps security professionals understand the current security posture of a system. Unlike passive gathering, where information is collected without direct interaction (such as through monitoring public records or social media), active gathering requires initiating contact or queries, making it more intrusive but effective in obtaining detailed insights.

In contrast, passive gathering does not involve direct interaction and focuses on observing systems without revealing one's presence. Social engineering relies on manipulating individuals into revealing confidential information rather than probing systems. Data mining typically involves analyzing vast amounts of data to identify patterns or insights but does not specifically pertain to probing a target for vulnerability assessments. Thus, active gathering is the correct choice for this question.