PREFACE

Learn the tools and techniques of modern Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) in this authoritative but accessible work, which takes the reader beyond the front page of Google and into a rich new world of investigative possibilities.

Suitable for both novice and seasoned investigators alike, this work introduces the core concepts of OSINT in the information age through a blend of theory and practical exercises. Dealing in-depth with more than 30 freely available OSINT tools, this book seeks to quantifiably build the reader’s skills within this rapidly emerging area of intelligence and investigative professional practice.

In addition to the introduction of the core tools and techniques, The Tao of Open Source Intelligence seeks to cut through the baffling array of technical terms often synonymous with the Internet. A rigorous definition of what terms such as Surface, Dark and Deep webs, meta search engines, social media and indexing among others are broken down and their relevance to the investigative process clearly explained.

Theoretical sections mixed with more practical text give a guide to the more complex issues associated with OSINT, such as the operational security, surveillance and counter surveillance in cyberspace and the issues associated with running covert human intelligence sources within the digital realm.

The Tao of Open Source Intelligence represents the current state of the art within this field and gives investigators new and old a solid foundation from which to build their own professional practices from.

Whether public or private sector, this work is comprehensive enough to give insight for a broad readership while specific enough to provide genuine guidance on key areas of OSINT professional practice.