Applying Digital Forensics Methodology to Open Source Investigations in Counterterrorism

Abstract

This research paper discusses the technical and legal aspects of open source intelligence (OSINT) as an investigation discipline in combating terrorism cases. Due to the proliferation of internet connectivity and the use of the Internet by terrorists, new mythologies and framework are needed to effectively identify, collect, preserve, and present the evidence related to such a serious crime. While there is no internationally agreed standard to apply on using OSINT for criminal investigations, the researcher proposes new framework that utilizes the application of digital forensics standards and methodologies in open source investigation to deliver admissible evidence in court of law.

Open Source Intelligence as an Approach to Investigating Criminal Events by Journalists (Case Study of the 2019 Forest and Land Fires in the Investigation Report of the Trace of the Geni-Starting Corporation in Tempo Magazine)

“…Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) can be defined as unclassified information that is found, collected, categorized, and distributed legally. (Elguindy, 2021). Journalism literally means journalism or reporting.…”