OSINT Checklist for Investigative Processes

This document is a checklist designed for Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) investigations, detailing the necessary phases and considerations for conducting thorough and ethical inquiries. The checklist is divided into several phases, starting with the preparation phase, which emphasizes the importance of defining objectives, clarifying targets, and ensuring legal and ethical compliance with relevant laws such as GDPR and CCPA. It also outlines the tools and resources needed for effective investigations, including search engines and databases. The data collection phase is elaborated with specific techniques for gathering information about individuals, organizations, events, and technical systems. The analysis phase focuses on correlating data, assessing credibility, and recognizing patterns. Finally, the reporting phase covers documentation practices and secure sharing methods. Additional considerations for training and operational security are also included, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and collaboration in OSINT practices.