What is OSINT?
Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) refers to the collection, analysis, and use of publicly available information to produce actionable intelligence. Sources include websites, news articles, public records, academic publications, social media platforms, online forums, and even multimedia content. Unlike classified intelligence, OSINT relies solely on information that can be legally accessed without specialised security clearance.
In the family office context, OSINT is increasingly used for due diligence, background checks, cyber risk monitoring, and reputational management. By systematically gathering and interpreting publicly available data, family offices can identify potential threats, uncover hidden connections, and gain valuable insights into individuals, companies, or markets.
- Helps monitor emerging risks, from cyber threats to geopolitical shifts.
- Supports compliance and regulatory obligations during investments or partnerships.
- Enables proactive reputation management and media monitoring.
For a deeper dive into security and risk trends, explore our Family Office Security & Risk Report 2025.
What sets OSINT apart is its accessibility – anyone with the right tools and analytical skills can use it – yet its effectiveness depends on critical thinking, context awareness, and verification of sources to avoid misinformation.