Due to its transversal nature, OSINT can be used by different actors in multiple domains: In journalism, for fact-checking purposes; In the judiciary, by law enforcement agencies, for data analysis; In the field of computer security, during a recognition phase before a pentest or audit; In business intelligence; On an individual basis, in order to see what traces can be left on the Internet.

OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) is a method aimed at collecting and analyzing information extracted from freely accessible sources (websites, accounts on networks or social media, satellite imagery, paper journals, etc.). More than an assembly of tools and methods, it's usual to speak of a "state of mind", turned towards investigation, made of rigor and ethics.

FAQs Archive - OSINT-FR

Q: 6. Which tools should I use?

There is no magic tool in OSINT. In most cases, a simple web browser will do the job. However, depending on the assumptions, you may need specific tools, which are listed here .

Q: 3. Is the practice of OSINT legal?

Since the purpose of OSINT is to consult open access sources, this method of information is legal. However, some referenced information may not be freely available (public referencing not consented to by its owner), and any access to it may therefore be considered illicit.

Q: 2. What are the other areas of OSINT?

OSINT is not just about exploiting data on the Web. Simple discussions or radio signals can be considered as open sources. Other areas of intelligence may use open sources. This is the case of : SOCMINT OSINT applied to social networks IMINT According to the American doctrine , this is the analysis of geolocalized information from imagery (traditional photographs, infrared images, radar, etc.) obtained by satellites, planes, drones, etc. France restricts Image Intelligence (ROIM) to research and development activities concerning image acquisition and analysis techniques; GEOINT According to the American doctrine , GEOINT combines the techniques of acquisition of geolocalized imagery, the analysis linked to this information (IMINT), and the addition of geodetic, geological and meteorological data. France refers to GEOINT all Geospatial Intelligence operational activities; SIGINT Analysis of electromagnetic signals and radio communications. In French: ROEM (Renseignement d'origine électromagnétique); MASINT Measurements analysis of a sensor (radio waves, nuclear, acoustic...) in order to determine its origin; RECON Extraction of technical information related to Web sites or other entities accessible on the Internet. Many other terms can be used in OSINT conversations such as COMINT, ELINT, FISINT, etc.