The Briefing Room

OPSEC for Real Life (No Fiction, Just Facts)
This week, I thought it would be fitting to talk about OpSec. We spend so much time talking about doing #OSINTforGood and conducting research ethically that sometimes we forget to talk about our own operational security. So, let’s break it down then. What is OpSec? Operational Security—originally a military
Don’t Overthink Your OSINT Journey: Your Path Will Be Unique
I clearly remember what it was like seeing the OSINT world from the outside — so mysterious, yet so fascinating. I knew I wanted to be part of this world; I just didn’t know how. There was no flashing sign that said, “Start Here.” There was this huge gap between
🕷️ Smoke and Mirrors: How Phantom Signal Tried to Erase the Evidence
📝 Note: This blog post blends fiction with real OSINT tradecraft. “Phantom Signal” is a fictional character created to reflect the very real challenges analysts face when digital evidence disappears. The tactics are real — the villain is just more stylish. We were five hours into the case when he showed up.
Should I Be Doing This? A Beginner’s Guide to Ethics in OSINT
This week we’re talking about something that I believe isn’t discussed nearly enough in the OSINT world--ethics. When most people hear OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence), they picture tools, search queries, and digital tricks. But before any of that, there’s a question you should be asking yourself. Should I be doing this?
Not Another Tools List: Let’s Talk OSINT Skills
We briefly touched on skills in Where in the OSINT World Do You Belong?. I consider this another vital part of the journey. Why? There are several things I believe are not talked about enough. Early in my journey, I focused mainly on the Collection phase and finding every bit
Where in the OSINT World Do You Belong?
After discussing Getting Started in OSINT last week, I figured we could move on to the second most popular question I get. “What type of jobs can I get in OSINT?” Good question! I promise there is no trick behind this question, it’s rather simple really. I remember when I
Getting Started in OSINT
In my previous post, “So You Want to Get into OSINT,” I shared an overview of what OSINT is, some beginner tools, and the glam vs. the grind. But many of you reached out asking, “Okay, but where exactly do I start? What should I focus on first?” Quick disclaimer:
OSINT 101: Essential Google Search Hacks to Start Your Journey
This blog isn’t intended to be a comprehensive guide to Google Dorking. Instead, think of it as a fun introduction designed to spark your curiosity and encourage you to dive deeper on your own. Two weeks ago, we covered some important basics: *What is OSINT? *Glamour vs. Reality *How to
So, You Want to Get Into OSINT?
So, you want to get into OSINT? I’m excited for you! But before you imagine yourself as a cyber detective in a movie montage (which, I totally did), let’s have an honest chat about what diving into this field is really like. OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence) is an incredible
🔍The Unicorn, the OG, and the Academy
My personal experience of the OSINT Academy. So, I did promise to share my personal experience in the OSINT Academy in my previous article Open-Source Certified (OSC): Shaping the Future of OSINT Through Certification. I consider myself detail-oriented and figured this chapter of my career deserves its own page. Let’s
🔓Open-Source Certified (OSC): Shaping the Future of OSINT Through Certification
What is OSINT? OSINT is the practice of gathering information from publicly available sources to analyze and interpret. Some common sources include social media, news media, property records, and websites. OSINT plays a crucial role in investigations and decision-making. Individuals using open-source range from law enforcement to cybersecurity professionals. Open-Source