Fundamentals of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT)

At Alison, the priority of course developers from Exoexcellence Consultants is to equip students with updated knowledge of the modern industrial outlook of the world. With ever-rising challenges in cybersecurity and the inherently dynamic environment of this field, we have developed four basic topics on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT). In today’s era, where abundant information can simplify and complicate matters, the significance of tools like OSINT increases immensely.

By enrolling in this course, students will understand the fundamental aspects of OSINT, its everyday users, and the specific applications for its use. They will also examine the steps of the intelligence cycle in detail and other important concepts, such as intelligence versus information. The second topic offers a comprehensive overview of the role of OSINT in managing cyber threats. Furthermore, it explores data harvesting methods from search engines, social media, and the deep web.

The third topic of this course describes the role of OSINT in combating and exposing online anonymity. This is explained by mentioning various methods, such as reverse imaging and analyzing writing styles and metadata. In the last topic, users will find more specific applications of OSINT in areas such as analysis of public records, gathering public information, code development, and data analytics, among others. A case study has also been included in the course to help students understand how OSINT can be effectively used in real-life situations.