The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word LURKING
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
L
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Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LURKING mean?
LURKING verb- To remain concealed in order to ambush.
- To remain unobserved.
- To hang out or wait around a location, preferably without drawing attention to oneself.
- To view an internet forum without posting comments.
- To saddle (a person) with an undesirable task or duty.
- The act of one who lurks.