OSINT Resources

Trusted tools and communities for open-source research.

Purpose

This page collects reliable resources, databases, and educational materials for journalists, advocates, and researchers practicing open-source intelligence (OSINT). Each link below leads to publicly accessible tools that support verification, transparency, and ethical investigation. These are starting points - not endorsements - and the list will continue to grow.

Foundational Reading

• Bellingcat – How-To Guides: detailed tutorials on verification, geolocation, and ethical sourcing.
• Georgetown Library OSINT Guide: academic introduction to open-source intelligence and public-record research.
• OSINT Curious Project: community-driven blog and podcast dedicated to practical investigation techniques.
• First Draft News: resources for verifying digital information and combating misinformation.
• GIJN (Global Investigative Journalism Network): global network sharing investigative tools, data sources, and training materials.

Search and Verification Tools

• Internet Archive: preserves web pages, documents, and media for verification and reference.
• TinEye Reverse Image Search: trace image origins and detect manipulation.
• DomainTools WHOIS Lookup: examine domain ownership and registration history.
• Have I Been Pwned?: check email or domain exposure in known data breaches.
• OSINT Combine Tools: free and paid platforms for structured open-source searches.

Mapping and Geospatial

• Google Earth / Street View: satellite and ground imagery for verification and timeline reconstruction.
• MapChecking: crowd-size and spatial estimation using open mapping data.
• MapHub: build custom interactive maps using open datasets.
• OpenStreetMap: open global map database editable and reviewable by the public.

Archival and Transparency Initiatives

• DocumentCloud: platform for hosting, searching, and annotating public records.
• Public.Resource.Org: nonprofit dedicated to free access to government documents and codes.
• MuckRock: FOIA filing and tracking platform connecting public records requests to journalists and citizens.
• Reuters Institute: studies and resources on media accountability and verification.

Community and Education

• OSINT Dojo: mentorship and gamified learning platform for OSINT practitioners.
• SecJuice: cybersecurity and intelligence writing community focusing on ethical open-source research.
• Coursera: Information Security and Data Analysis: introductory course covering verification and digital investigation principles.
• edX Cybersecurity Courses: free modules for understanding information exposure and protection.

This resource list is evolving. OSINT thrives on collaboration - if you know of tools or archives that should be added here, please email contact@onionmadder.com.