Glossary
Open-source intelligence (OSINT)
Investigation based exclusively on publicly available information — satellite imagery, social media, government documents, leaked data.
OSINT has transformed conflict reporting since 2014. Bellingcat's Boeing MH17 reporting, the Ukraine war's real-time documentation, and modern atrocity attribution all rely on cross-referencing public sources to build claims that would previously have required classified intelligence. Tools include reverse image search, geolocation via shadows and skylines, flight tracking, ship AIS data, and social-media archival. OSINT is rigorous when properly cross-checked and disastrous when used carelessly — false attributions in fast-moving stories are common. See also: fact-checking, primary source.
Related terms