Open-source intelligence (OSINT) is the collection and assessment of information available from public sources. In a fraud investigation, this may help organise questions about websites, public company records, online accounts or other digital material relevant to a reported event.
A source-led approach
The work may record where a public item was found, when it was accessed, what it says and whether it can be independently checked. A website may change or disappear, so a dated record can help preserve what was visible at a particular time.
Information should be compared across sources rather than accepted because it appears in a search result or on a polished page. Similar names, logos, phone numbers or visual styles may be copied. A shared feature can suggest a question for further review but is not proof that two people, sites or businesses are connected.
Boundaries and privacy
OSINT concerns information available from public sources within an agreed scope. It does not mean accessing private accounts, bypassing security, impersonating someone, or collecting unrelated personal information. Any review should be proportionate to the question and handle sensitive information carefully.
Public material can be inaccurate, misleading or out of date. Analysts should document source limitations and avoid presenting an online identity as verified without supporting evidence.
How it can support an investigation
Public digital information may help place a reported contact, domain or business claim in context. It can be considered alongside communications, payment records and other material, with reported information kept distinct from independent observations and analysis.
Related methods include open-source research, infrastructure analysis and evidence and reporting support.
Clear expectations
Online research does not guarantee that an individual can be identified or contacted. It may produce leads for further assessment, not a definitive answer or a recovery route.