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Open-Source Investigations

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WZ and OSINT expert Heather Honey invite you to experience a cutting-edge training series perfect for the modern investigator.

The online world offers a nearly limitless resource for finding publically-available information once you know how to structure your search, how to verify information, and how to use websites to their full potential. Participants in the WZ Open-Source Investigations class not only learn these skills but also get to practice them in real-time alongside Heather.

The WZ Open-Source Investigations curriculum is split into three levels and available as separate registrations or in a discounted bundle

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OSI.1 provides an overview of OSINT and the intelligence cycle. Attendees will understand the importance of anonymity and the need to focus on methodology over tools. OSI.1 focuses on online people-investigation skills with numerous hands-on exercises to practice what you learn. Topics include:

  • Privacy & Anonymity
  • Investigation Platforms: virtual machines/emulators/sock puppets/mobile phones
  • Search Engines: advanced search operators & reverse image searching
  • Collection and Preservation: recording and collecting OSINT findings
  • Deleted Content: archives and cached
  • Verification and Provenance
  • People Investigation Skills: making use of usernames/cell phones/email addresses/other identifying information
  • Social Media: locating relevant data/confirming accounts/capturing evidence/understanding platform features

OSI.2 provides an in-depth exploration of location and event investigations. Attendees will learn techniques for geolocating images, collecting evidence as events happen, and the value of social media for location and event investigations. OSI.2 provides active learning opportunities with 10 hands-on exercises and case studies. Topics include:

  • OSINT Review
  • Locations & Events: investigating places/events/incidents
  • Geolocation: using images and context clues to determine location
  • Photos & Metadata: Image analysis and extraction of metadata
  • Live OSINT: locating relevant data as live events happen
  • Maps including Satellite Imagery and conducting Transportation investigations
  • Using Social Media platforms for collecting evidence in real time or after incidents
  • Social Media and hashtags
  • OSINT for vulnerability assessments heat maps

OSI.3 is an advanced course with a focus on business investigations, online due diligence and dark web investigations. OSI.3 explores the more technical aspects of open-source investigations. Attendees participate in numerous hands-on activities and a CTF to practice what they have learned. Topics include:

  • Business Investigations and due diligence basics
  • Domains and websites
  • Email Headers & IP Addresses
  • Using wireless networks and MAC ID for investigations
  • International Business Investigations
  • Dark Web including Tor walkthrough and introduction to cryptocurrency
  • Tor investigations and Pastebins
  • Breach data access and ethical considerations
  • Capture the Flag

Presented by Heather Honey

Heather Honey is the founder and president of Haystack Group, an investigations, consulting and training firm based in Pennsylvania.   She has over 25 years of experience handling complex investigations in corporate and government environments.

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