What method is NOT commonly used by foreign agents to collect information?

The method of hosting public seminars is typically not used by foreign agents to collect information covertly. This approach tends to be more transparent and may even lack the intent to gather sensitive information secretly. It generally involves open discussions and presentations, which are accessible to the public and do not facilitate clandestine information gathering.

In contrast, covert espionage, recruitment of Americans, and cyber attacks are all methods that align with the strategies of foreign agents seeking to collect sensitive or classified information while maintaining an element of secrecy. Covert espionage involves stealthy tactics to gather intelligence without the subject's knowledge. Recruitment of Americans can entail influencing or bribing individuals within the target country to provide inside information. Cyber attacks are frequently employed to breach networks and extract sensitive data without detection. Each of these methods involves a level of deception or covert action that does not apply to hosting public seminars.