OSINT Detective Days: Uncovering the Truth Online

OSINT Detective Days: Uncovering the Truth Online

Overview

Are you intrigued by the world of investigative journalism, digital forensics, or perhaps fascinated by the power of open-source intelligence (OSINT) in uncovering truths?

If so, join us for an immersive two-day Master Class designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to become a proficient OSINT investigator. Derek Bowler, the Head of Social Newsgathering at Eurovision News, will lead a comprehensive dive into OSINT, covering a wide array of topics, from verification and fact-checking to utilising artificial intelligence (AI) for enhanced investigations. Whether you're a seasoned journalist, digital forensics expert, educator, or researcher, this course is tailored to meet your needs and expand your investigative toolkit.

Over the course of two days, you'll engage in hands-on exercises, delve into real-world case studies, and interact with industry professionals to gain valuable insights and practical experience. From learning how to verify online information to mastering advanced scraping techniques, each session is carefully crafted to provide you with actionable skills that you can immediately apply in your investigations.

Who is it for

  • Investigative Reporters
  • Digital Journalists
  • Fact-Checkers
  • Digital Forensics Experts
  • Broadcast and Social Media News Editors and Journalists
  • News Content Strategists
  • Anyone with a strong foundation in online research seeking to quickly master key OSINT techniques.

Course Structure (In-Person, Grand-Saconnex, Geneva):

Day 1: Digital Inquiry and Media Authentication (9:00 - 17:00 CEST)

Session 1 (9:00 - 11:00): Leveraging AI Prompts and Search Operators for OSINT

  • Strategic Application of AI Prompting Techniques for Targeted OSINT Research.
  • Mastering Complex Search Operators and Alternative Search Strategies for Deep Web Discovery.
  • Integrating AI and Advanced Search for Efficient Information Retrieval and Analysis in OSINT Workflows.
  • Hands-on Activity: Participants will tackle focused OSINT scenarios applying AI prompts and search techniques to locate and synthesise critical information.

Session 2 (11:30 - 13:30): Source Verification and Digital Footprint Analysis for OSINT

  • Methodologies for Verifying the Provenance and Digital Footprint of Online Sources in OSINT Investigations.
  • Employing Key OSINT Tools and Techniques for In-Depth Analysis of Social Media, Websites, and Digital Trails.
  • Identifying Inconsistencies and Indicators of Potential Manipulation or Disinformation.
  • Hands-on Activity: Participants will conduct focused OSINT analysis of digital footprints to assess source credibility and identify potential risks.

Session 3 (14:30 - 16:30): Media Authentication: Image and Video Forensics for OSINT Professionals

  • Practical Application of Techniques for Analysing the Authenticity of Images and Videos in OSINT Contexts.
  • Utilising Key Forensic Tools for Metadata Analysis, Reverse Media Searching, and Basic AI Detection.
  • Identifying Indicators of Manipulation and Synthetic Media Relevant to OSINT Investigations.
  • Hands-on Activity: Participants will work with potentially manipulated media, applying forensic techniques and basic AI detection to assess authenticity.

Day 2: Geolocation, Disinformation Analysis, and Ethical OSINT Practices (9:00 - 17:00 CEST)

Session 4 (9:00 - 11:00): Geolocation and Chronological Analysis in OSINT Investigations

  • Mastering Key Geolocation Techniques Utilising Visual Cues, Environmental Factors, and Relevant OSINT Tools.
  • Developing Skills in Verifying the Temporal Accuracy of Online Information and Media in OSINT Timelines.
  • Applying Mapping and Temporal Analysis Techniques for OSINT Intelligence Gathering.
  • Hands-on Activity: Participants will solve focused geolocation challenges and reconstruct event timelines using OSINT scenarios.

Session 5 (11:30 - 13:30): Identifying and Analysing Disinformation in OSINT Investigations

  • Recognising Common and Advanced Disinformation Tactics Relevant to Online Investigations.
  • Utilising OSINT Tools and Strategies for Identifying and Analysing Misleading Narratives.
  • Understanding the Impact of AI-Generated Content on the Disinformation Landscape in OSINT.
  • Hands-on Activity: Participants will analyse examples of online disinformation and discuss strategies for identification and assessment within an OSINT context.

Session 6 (14:30 - 16:30): Ethical Considerations and Responsible OSINT Practices in 2025

  • Navigating Copyright and Privacy Issues in the Context of OSINT Research.
  • Best Practices for Responsible Sourcing, Attribution, and Data Handling in Online Investigations.
  • Understanding the Ethical Implications of Utilising AI and OSINT Techniques.
  • Case Study Analysis and Discussion: Participants will discuss ethical dilemmas and best practices for conducting responsible and legally sound OSINT investigations.

Location: Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland (Specific venue details will be provided upon registration).

This accelerated "OSINT Detective Days" course provides a concentrated learning experience to rapidly enhance your advanced OSINT skills.