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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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.