OSINT, Journalism and the Modern Audience
Key Insights from the Conference: Implications for Due Diligence Professionals
8th November 2024 – UK OSINT Community Seminar
November’s OSINT, Journalism and the Modern Audience conference provided vital insights into the evolving landscape of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), particularly its growing relevance and challenges in the enhanced due diligence, background screening, and compliance sectors. Speakers emphasised the importance of combining cutting-edge OSINT tools with human expertise, addressing global accessibility disparities, and combating the rising tide of online information disorder.
The Synergy of OSINT Technology and Human Investigators
One of the central takeaways from the conference was presented by Manisha Ganguly, Investigations Correspondent at the Guardian, who highlighted the need for collaboration between technology-driven OSINT and skilled human investigators. While advanced OSINT technologies can rapidly gather and analyse vast datasets, they often require human interpretation to contextualise findings and derive actionable insights.
In the enhanced due diligence field, this synergy is critical. Automated tools can efficiently scan for red flags, such as undisclosed affiliations, financial irregularities, or adverse media coverage. However, without expert analysis, nuances such as regional context, cultural subtleties, or potential disinformation can be overlooked, leading to incomplete or inaccurate risk assessments. This dual approach ensures more robust investigations, enabling professionals to deliver trustworthy results.
Addressing Global Disparities in OSINT Coverage
Also stressed was the importance of improving OSINT accessibility and coverage in the Global South. Many regions in Asia, Africa, and Latin America suffer from a lack of reliable open-source data due to limited digitisation, language barriers, and restricted access to local records.
For compliance professionals, this poses a significant challenge when conducting due diligence in emerging markets. Inadequate OSINT coverage can result in blind spots, increasing the risk of partnering with entities involved in corruption, fraud, or other illicit activities. Businesses must invest in multilingual capabilities, region-specific expertise, and technology solutions to bridge the gap.
Combating the Information Disorder Landscape
Eliot Higgins’ (Founder of Bellingcat) discussion on the proliferation of disinformation, misinformation, and malinformation struck a chord with professionals across industries. He outlined how “agents of disorder”, including state actors, opportunists, and ideologically driven individuals, exploit digital platforms to distort truth and manipulate narratives.
In due diligence, distinguishing between legitimate and fabricated information is crucial. Malicious actors may intentionally spread falsehoods to discredit competitors or mask illegal activities. Compliance teams must employ advanced OSINT methodologies and technologies, combined with critical thinking, to identify and counter such tactics. Furthermore, ongoing training to recognise patterns of manipulation can help investigators stay ahead in this ever-changing landscape.
Key Takeaways for the Due Diligence Community
The conference underscored the importance of integrating OSINT innovation, human expertise, and a global perspective to navigate today’s complex investigative environment. By proactively addressing these challenges, due diligence professionals can mitigate risks, strengthen compliance, and safeguard their organisations against the perils of information disorder.
At Neotas, we remain committed to leveraging these insights to enhance our OSINT-driven due diligence solutions, delivering actionable intelligence tailored to the unique needs of our clients.
A big thank-you to the UK OSINT Community for organising the event and providing a platform for professionals and enthusiasts alike to come together.
Written by
Alex Penn
Senior Open Source Intelligence Consultant at Neotas Ltd
