Using Open Source Intelligence To Structure Effective Data Gathering
Course Info
Course Summary
Within any industry, it is vital to gather and structure data effectively. Data can provide great insight into any desired area and grant the ability to further develop an overall organisation, certain functions, or specific projects. Without a surplus source of data, the organisation can be disconnected from the outside world, causing it to fall behind competitors or to be incapable of meeting goals and objectives.
To be competent at open-source intelligence, it is necessary to understand the different types of open-source data and how to access these efficiently. Once accessed, those involved would need a keen eye for detail to understand what information can be utilised and what is irrelevant to the cause. Various methods can yield more accurate data collection results, and multiple techniques can aid in categorising and processing the data.
Furthermore, when collecting data through open-source intelligence, there must be a strong focus on security. Data collection should ideally be done anonymously to protect the individual and their organisation. Sensitive data should be securely stored and managed to ensure no potential damaging content is leaked.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the vitality of open-source intelligence for effective data gathering.
- Review the evolution of open-source intelligence and how it adapted to what is used today.
- Explain the dilemma of open-source intelligence and privacy (GDPR).
- Assess the concepts, principles, and typical uses of open-course intelligence.
- Utilise a variety of search engine techniques and tools to return investigation results.
- Conduct investigations of suspects online using smart applications, social media accounts and existing and deleted websites.
- Effectively conceal digital identity to carry out open-source intelligence methods anonymously.
This course is designed for anyone within an organisation responsible for sourcing information and wishing to develop their knowledge of open-source intelligence. It would be most beneficial for:
- Data Analysts
- Prosecution Personnel
- Information Security Officers
- Security Managers
- Solicitors and Legal Representatives
- Detectives
- Open-source Intelligence Strategist`
This course uses a variety of adult learning styles to aid full understanding and comprehension. Participants will be provided case studies of open-source intelligence objectives that they will work to complete throughout the course, utilising their knowledge and new skills.
They will participate in a variety of learning exercises to ensure full comprehension and development of the related skills and knowledge. The course will combine seminars, video materials, group discussions, and practical activities. These, alongside the case studies, will allow the participants to apply their abilities practically and receive feedback from the tutors and other participants.
Course Content & Outline
Section 1: Fundamentals of Open-Source Intelligence
- Defining what open-source intelligence is.
- Assessing the various intelligence sources – news and media, grey literature, social media, and dark web.
- The advantages and disadvantages of using each source of intelligence.
- Explaining the benefits and limitations of using open-source intelligence.
- Identifying what parties are interested in open-source information.
Section 2: Online Threats and Countermeasures
- Exploring the possible online threats and predicting their probability.
- Prioritising threats and establishing preventative measures.
- Different types of security software and their ideal purpose.
- Managing digital privacy settings when conducting open-source intelligence investigations.
- The importance of securing online communication.
- Online tracking techniques and how to protect yourself.
Section 3: Open-source Intelligence Privacy Dilemma
- Comprehending the open-source intelligence privacy dilemma.
- The ethical implications of collecting private data, leaked content, and sensitive information.
- Securing collected data safely throughout the sourcing and analysis process.
- The process of managing personal data – acquiring, processing, sharing, mining and storage.
- Open-source accountability.
Section 4: Search Engine Techniques
- Utilising various search engines to locate specific information.
- Identifying which search engine would yield ideal results.
- Implementing automated search tools to improve productivity and manage security.
- Integrating Internet of Things (IoT) device search engines into standard use.
- Searching for digital files, images, and documents.
Section 5: Social Media Intelligence
- Defining social media intelligence.
- How social media has evolved the standard of open-source intelligence.
- Efficiently searching social media websites and applications for the desired information.
- Tracking photos downloaded from social media pages to their source location.
- Taking advantage of advanced search operators for Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
- Conducting social media psychological analysis.
Certificate Description
Upon successful completion of this training course, delegates will be awarded a Holistique Training Certificate of Completion. For those who attend and complete the online training course, a Holistique Training e-Certificate will be provided.
Holistique Training Certificates are accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) and The CPD Certification Service (CPD), and are certified under ISO 9001, ISO 21001, and ISO 29993 standards.
CPD credits for this course are granted by our Certificates and will be reflected on the Holistique Training Certificate of Completion. In accordance with the standards of The CPD Certification Service, one CPD credit is awarded per hour of course attendance. A maximum of 50 CPD credits can be claimed for any single course we currently offer.
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