Due to the planned collaboration with a new partner responsible for security, we received a commission from the management of a large company. Our task was to conduct an investigation using OSINT and SOCMINT methods. The goal of the investigation was to identify potential risks associated with including this person among the partners, such as possible irregularities in their professional history, legal issues, or ambiguities regarding their qualifications.
OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) is a method of gathering information from publicly available sources, such as the internet, media, or public records. SOCMINT (Social Media Intelligence), on the other hand, focuses on collecting data from social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
Searching Registers
We began by searching the Central Register and Information on Economic Activity (CEIDG), where it was discovered that the potential partner does not have any registered business activities. The National Court Register (KRS) also did not contain any entries. This person was not associated with any companies registered in KRS.
In the next stage, a search of the National Register of Insolvent Debtors and national debt exchanges also revealed no outstanding debts.
Checking government registers did not confirm that this person had any business connections or activities, so the next step was to review their social media and media reports.
Social Media Analysis
Conducting a thorough investigation using OSINT and SOCMINT methods, we came across significant information regarding the potential partner. During the analysis of social media accounts, we discovered that a comment was posted on the man’s social media profile by the owner of a competing company. This led us to further connections.
On Facebook, we found shared photos in which both men were tagged. After a detailed analysis, it turned out that the potential partner’s sister is married to the president of the company with which our client had a conflict. This discovery sheds new light on the situation and could be crucial in assessing potential conflicts of interest related to including this person among the partners. Such familial ties with the competition may raise doubts about the loyalty and intentions of this person, so we recommend that our client carefully consider all aspects of this situation before making a final decision.
AI Tools Supporting OSINT
Having the profile picture, we were able to use an AI-based tool to search for other photos depicting the same person. This action proved crucial in this case. As a result, we found several photos from 5-6 years ago that were posted by the person being investigated on various websites. These photos were controversial and certainly did not align with the seriousness of the company with which this person was supposed to collaborate. However, apart from the mentioned photos, no information was found indicating this person’s involvement in scandals or unethical practices.
Our task was not to interpret the findings and assess the suitability of the person for collaboration, but to present the information to the client, which we did in the form of an analytical report. All doubts and inconsistencies that arose during the creation of the report were included, as well as all potential “red flags.” It was the client’s role to evaluate our findings and decide whether this person was suitable to become a partner in the company.
Summary
It is worth using OSINT methods because they allow for the acquisition of valuable information from publicly available sources, which can support decision-making processes in various fields. Additionally, OSINT enables the identification of potential risks and irregularities, which is crucial for ensuring the safety and protection of the interests of both companies and individuals.
Author: Piotr Dobosz
*Client data has been anonymized before publication.
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