Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)

OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) is the practice of collecting information from published or otherwise publicly available sources.

In the context of OSINT, intelligence refers to the extraction and analysis of public data to gain insights, which are then used to improve decision making and inform activity. Traditionally, OSINT was a technique used by the national security and law enforcement communities. However, in recent years it has also become a foundational capability within cybersecurity.

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Disclaimer

When using OSINT, practitioners must ensure they are doing so for legitimate purposes and that information is not used to exploit, harass, ostracize or harm others.