Open source intelligence (OSINT) is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, and staying current is essential for practitioners, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.
With new tools, methodologies, and discoveries emerging regularly, keeping up with the latest developments can feel overwhelming. However, with the right resources and strategies, you can remain informed and ahead.
Here’s a guide to staying updated on OSINT resources and insights:
1. Leverage Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms are goldmines for discovering up-to-date OSINT discussions, tools, and techniques.
- LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and BlueSky: Search for keywords like "OSINT," "SOCMINT" (social media intelligence), "OPSEC" (operational security), "privacy," or "security" to find relevant content and active users.
- Deck.Blue Dashboard: Create a customizable dashboard on Deck.Blue to monitor specific keywords or hashtags. This tool helps track posts from users who frequently share valuable OSINT content on BlueSky.
2. Follow Weekly OSINT Summaries
Digesting concise weekly newsletters is a practical way to stay informed without getting overwhelmed.
- The OSINT Round-Up - The Friday 5: A weekly newsletter providing five key OSINT insights written by Ritu Gill and sent out every Friday. Sign up here: OSINT Round-Up Newsletter.
- Sector035's Week in OSINT: Published every Monday, this newsletter offers another excellent source of weekly OSINT highlights. Subscribe here: Week in OSINT.
3. Dive Into OSINT Books
Books provide an in-depth understanding of OSINT methodologies and practices. Three standout reads are:
- Deep Dive by Rae Baker: An excellent guide for exploring real-world intelligence-gathering techniques. Get it on Amazon.
- OSINT Techniques by Michael Bazzell: A detailed resource on uncovering hidden information using advanced OSINT tools. Find it on Amazon.
- OSINT: The Authoritative Guide to Due Diligence by Cynthia Hetherington: Get it on Amazon.
4. Utilize Start.me Pages
Start.me pages are curated collections of OSINT tools and resources. A standout resource is Griffin Glynn’s Ultimate OSINT Collection.
- To find additional collections, use Google search operators like:
site:start.me "osint"
5. Watch YouTube Tutorials
YouTube hosts an abundance of OSINT tutorials and case studies, ideal for visual learners. Some recommended channels include:
- Benjamin Strick: Known for in-depth, step-by-step tutorials.
- OSINT Dojo: Offers practical insights into OSINT tools and techniques.
- Forensic OSINT: Tutorials into how to use the capturing software and includes OSINT techniques.
6. Attend OSINT Conferences
Conferences are invaluable for networking and learning directly from experts.
- OSMOSIS Con: A leading OSINT-focused conference. The next event is scheduled for June 2026. Learn more here: OSMOSIS Association.
- SANS OSINT Summit: Hosted by the SANS Institute, this event dives deep into OSINT for cybersecurity, digital forensics, and threat intelligence. The next conference is in February 2025. Learn more here: SANS OSINT Summit.
- Australian OSINT Symposium: An event for OSINT professionals focusing on challenges, tools, and case studies. Learn more here: OSINT Symposium.
7. Engage in Online Communities
Online forums and Discord channels are excellent for collaborative learning and community support.
- Reddit's r/OSINT: Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share insights. Join here.
- Discord Channels:
- OSMOSIS Association: Join the Discord
- Kase Scenarios: Join the Discord
- Bellingcat: Join the Discord
- OSINT UK: Join the Discord
Regularly Explore New Resources
The OSINT field evolves rapidly, and new tools or methodologies frequently emerge. Stay proactive by exploring new platforms, experimenting with tools, and learning from the community.
By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can stay at the forefront of OSINT developments and continuously enhance your skills. Whether you’re a professional investigator, journalist, or just an OSINT enthusiast, these resources will keep you informed.
