Challenge 18: Unverified Tip
Disclaimer:
This scenario is fictionalized and designed for educational purposes. Any names, aliases, or narrative elements are part of a constructed exercise intended to support analytical skill development.
Participants are expected to rely solely on publicly available information and to conduct all research responsibly and ethically.
Brief
The planned meeting at the previously identified location came and went without contact. (see Challenge 17: The Invitation)
Mrs. OSINT remained in the area long enough to confirm she had not missed an approach and observed nothing that suggested the meeting had shifted nearby. With no further communication received, she documented the encounter and left.
Given the unusual nature of the outreach, she notified a small circle of trusted professional contacts and asked them to flag any relevant indicators tied to the alias Red Scorpion. The name had surfaced during the prior anonymous communication but had not yet been attributed to a confirmed individual.
Approximately 48 hours later, one contact forwarded a message referencing unverified chatter about an individual reportedly brought into the area for a short-term contract and believed to be staying locally. The information was incomplete and uncorroborated.
Attached to the message was a single image.
Primary Objective
Using the provided image:
1. Determine the exact vantage point where the photo was taken.
2. Provide the GPS coordinates (latitude/longitude) for that location.
3. Include one supporting map or Street View screenshot that confirms your assessment.
4. Identify two nearby accommodations and explain how their proximity could support routine access to this area.
Bonus:
5. What type of activity is this area most consistent with? Explain briefly.
🕵️ How to Submit Your Findings:
Participants have 48 hours to complete this challenge.
Submit your assessment using the Google form link.
Deadline: Friday at 9:00 AM ET
To preserve the integrity of the exercise, please do not share answers publicly while the challenge is active.
Submissions will be reviewed after the deadline, and a small number will be recognized for clear, well-supported analysis.
