Open-Source Intelligence
Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) isn’t just for the Feds or cybersecurity professionals, it’s a powerful tool that anyone can use to gather useful information. Whether you’re looking to verify a news story, research a business, or protect yourself from scams, OSINT techniques can help. Here are a few things everyone can do with OSINT:
1. Verify Information Online
Misinformation spreads quickly, but OSINT can help you fact-check. Reverse image searches using tools like Google Lens or TinEye can confirm whether a photo is real or has been used out of context. Checking multiple news sources and using sites like Snopes or FactCheck.org can also help verify stories before sharing them.
2. Research People & Businesses
Before doing business with a company or individual, OSINT can help you vet them. Public records, LinkedIn profiles, and business review sites like Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Trustpilot can reveal red flags. You can also use WHOIS lookups to check who owns a website and ensure it's legitimate.
3. Enhance Personal Security
OSINT can show you how much of your personal information is publicly available. Searching your name on Google, social media platforms, and data broker sites (e.g., Spokeo, Whitepages) can reveal what’s out there.
4. Identify Scams & Fraud
Scammers often use fake phone numbers, emails, or addresses. OSINT tools like Have I Been Pwned can check if your email has been compromised. You can also look up phone numbers on sites like 800notes or search for email scams to avoid phishing attempts.
5. Improve Everyday Decision-Making
From checking real estate records before buying a home to researching local crime data, OSINT helps you make informed decisions. Even looking up online reviews and social media mentions of a company before making a purchase is a simple but effective OSINT tactic.
With just a few free tools and a little critical thinking, anyone can use OSINT to stay informed, protect themselves, and make smarter choices.
