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5 reasons why OSINT is critical (2023)

Grant • 18 August 2022

OSINT is critical (2023)

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In today's digital era, the landscape of private investigations has undergone a profound transformation. Gone are the days of old-school detectives shadowing suspects through dimly lit streets. Instead, the advent of the internet has ushered in a new era, where Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) takes centre stage. OSINT, the art of gathering and dissecting publicly available data, has emerged as an indispensable asset in private investigations. It confers a multitude of advantages, elevating the efficiency and efficacy of the investigative process.


After servicing thousands of clients and with years of experience, our senior agents use open source intelligence as part of almost every investigation. Operant Investigators are uniquely positioned to provide the most detailed reports because of this.


Open source intelligence is critical to robust information gathering and is vital to stepping forward to closed or private intelligence data sources.


The Police, intelligence services, and other government bodies use OSINT to help gather information on persons of interest. They do so for many reasons, some of which we will cover today.


That's why we have provided our 5 top reasons as to why OSINT is critical.

1. Open source intelligence is the largest data source available to you, the Internet contains trillions of data points including photo, text, databases, video, check in, reviews, maps, schedules, the list is endless. The internet teems with a wealth of data, encapsulating every facet of people's lives. OSINT empowers private investigators to tap into this extensive repository of information, uncovering details about individuals, organizations, and events. Social media profiles, digital forums, news articles, and public records serve as just a few examples of the bounteous sources available.

2. Missing OSINT data is the biggest faux par, imagine missing something that can be found using a Google search! You cannot ignore OSINT, even if your report contains all of the necessary information, add in the additional OSINT data, your clients will thank you. OSINT leans on publicly available information, which often boasts superior accuracy and reliability compared to data procured from human sources. The latter may carry biases or inadvertently provide misleading information, making the precision of OSINT an invaluable asset in constructing robust cases.

3. Tertiary data is a hidden gem. Using tertiary OSINT data can through analysis be used to make accurate assumptions. As an example, if you know subject 1 has entered a a building, you can use tertiary data source to compile a list of other people entered the building to understand what the building is for, what those people are doing and more importantly what they do when they enter at that time. Beyond data collection, OSINT offers an arsenal of tools for conducting in-depth analyses. This enables investigators to unearth hidden patterns, establish connections, and gain insights that might elude traditional methods, facilitating more informed decision-making.
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OSINT equips investigators with tools and methodologies that expedite the retrieval of critical information. This celerity proves vital in cases where time is of the essence, such as missing person investigations or the detection of fraudulent activities. The internet transcends geographical boundaries, affording OSINT the capability to gather information from across the globe. This global reach becomes particularly valuable in cases involving international dimensions or suspects attempting to evade capture in foreign jurisdictions.


Conforming to Legal Frameworks: OSINT conducts its operations well within the bounds of the law, as it relies solely on publicly accessible data. This adherence to legal parameters minimizes the risk of legal entanglements that can accompany investigations involving dubious tactics or breaches of privacy. Traditional investigative approaches often expose investigators to physical dangers, especially when dealing with dangerous individuals or criminal syndicates. OSINT empowers investigators to maintain a safe distance, reducing personal risks significantly.



4. It doesn't cost anything. Because OSINT data is completely free it allows you free reign to go back, double check data, record, analyse and evaluate at will. It also means it is a great started point for identifying where to spend your case budget where it will produce the best results for your client. When compared to traditional investigative methods, OSINT presents an economically savvy alternative. It eliminates the need for large manpower resources and physical surveillance, alleviating the financial burden on clients. Investigators can effortlessly access a treasure trove of information, saving both time and resources.


5. Social media, social media is the biggest source of relevant and targeted OSINT gathering for most personal cases. Even a single photo can be key in revealing further details of a case from social media. People give up their data freely to anyone who has an interest in it, use it wisely and combined with other techniques it can help put together a weapons grade report your clients will.be satisfied with.

Harnessing the Power of OSINT in Contemporary Private Investigations

OSINT seamlessly adapts to a wide spectrum of investigative scenarios, ranging from comprehensive background checks and due diligence to the intricate realms of cyber investigations and the location of missing persons. Its inherent versatility renders it an invaluable tool in an investigator's repertoire. In a rapidly changing digital landscape, OSINT undergoes continual evolution, adapting to emerging technologies and online trends. Private investigators who embrace OSINT stay at the forefront of investigative practices, ensuring their sustained efficacy in the field.


The significance of OSINT in private investigations cannot be overstated. This potent tool harnesses the boundless expanse of publicly accessible online information, elevating the velocity, precision, and efficiency of investigations. It empowers investigators to access global data, mitigate risks, and operate within the confines of the law while delivering cost-effective results. As technology continues to advance, OSINT remains an indispensable component of modern private investigations, equipping investigators to surmount the challenges posed by the digital age.


If you need help with your OSINT and/or perhaps feel professional input is required. Please get in touch with our experienced team of trained professionals. Click here to contact us.



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