OSINT Methodologies
Master proven methodologies for conducting structured, efficient and professional OSINT investigations
OSINT Investigation Process
A 5-step process for methodical and effective investigations
Planning
Define your objectives, identify targets and relevant sources
Key points:
- Clearly define the investigation objectives
- Establish the scope and legal boundaries
- Identify potential sources of information
- Plan timeline and necessary resources
Collection
Systematic gathering of information in an organized manner
Key points:
- Use appropriate tools for each source type
- Organize collected data in a structured manner
- Maintain traceability of sources and methods
- Respect legal and ethical aspects
Analysis
Evaluation, correlation and interpretation of collected data
Key points:
- Verify the reliability and accuracy of information
- Identify patterns and correlations
- Cross-reference information from different sources
- Assess relevance to objectives
Documentation
Systematic recording of findings and sources
Key points:
- Document all sources used
- Record methodologies employed
- Capture evidence (screenshots, archives)
- Maintain chain of custody
Reporting
Clear and structured presentation of results
Key points:
- Structure findings in a logical manner
- Adapt detail level to audience
- Include recommendations and actions
- Provide appendices and references
Types of OSINT Investigations
Discover different types of investigations and their specialized methodologies
People Investigation
Search for information about specific individuals
Main techniques:
- Social media search
- Photo metadata analysis
- Public database search
- Pseudonym and alias analysis
Recommended tools:
Infrastructure Investigation
Analysis of technical and network infrastructure
Main techniques:
- DNS and WHOIS reconnaissance
- Port and service scanning
- SSL certificate analysis
- Infrastructure mapping
Recommended tools:
Organization Investigation
Research on companies and organizations
Main techniques:
- Analysis of official records
- Public document search
- Analysis of relationships and partnerships
- Mapping of employees and executives
Recommended tools:
Essential Best Practices
Follow these fundamental principles for effective and ethical investigations
Legality and ethics
Always respect local and international laws
Cross-verification
Confirm information with multiple independent sources
Rigorous documentation
Maintain detailed records of all your activities
Operational security
Protect your identity and investigation activities
Ready to put it into practice?
Explore our OSINT tools and practice with our case studies to refine your investigation skills.