While the relevant portions of the FCA refer to a “private person” and a “qui tam plaintiff,” the term “relator” is typically used to identify the person who files a qui tam action on behalf of the government. The terms “relator” and “whistleblower” are often used interchangeably; however, whistleblower is a generic term that can refer to someone who files a claim under one of the federal agency whistleblower programs. In modern vernacular, a whistleblower can also refer to anyone who public discloses information about illicit or corrupt behavior by an individual or organization, regardless of whether they file a lawsuit.