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The OSINT Handbook: A practical guide to gathering and analyzing online information

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Explore top open-source Intelligence (OSINT) tools, build threat intelligence, and create a resilient cyber defense against evolving online threats

Key FeaturesExplore some of the best open-source intelligence tools such as Maltego, Shodan, and Aircrack-ngDevelop an OSINT-driven threat intelligence program to mitigate cyber risksLeverage the power of information through OSINT with real-world case studiesPurchase of the print or Kindle book includes a free PDF eBookBook DescriptionThe rapid expansion of IT and digital businesses has brought along a surge in online threats, amplifying cybersecurity risks and the need for effective solutions. Enter the OSINT framework, a pivotal ally, enabling organizations with a powerful toolset to proactively fortify security measures. The OSINT Handbook offers practical guidance and insights to enhance your OSINT capabilities.

Starting with an introduction to the concept of OSINT, this book explores its applications and the legal and ethical considerations associated with OSINT research. You’ll find essential techniques for gathering and analyzing information using search engines, social media platforms, and other web-based resources. As you advance, this book emphasizes anonymity and techniques for secure browsing, managing digital footprints, and creating online personas. You’ll also gain hands-on experience with popular OSINT tools such as Recon-ng, Maltego, Shodan, and Aircrack-ng, and leverage OSINT to mitigate cyber risks with expert strategies that enhance threat intelligence efforts. Real-world case studies will illustrate the role of OSINT in anticipating, preventing, and responding to cyber threats.

By the end of this book, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to confidently navigate the digital landscape and unlock the power of information using OSINT.

What you will learnWork with real-life examples of OSINT in action and discover best practicesAutomate OSINT collection and analysisHarness social media data for OSINT purposesManage your digital footprint to reduce risk and maintain privacyUncover and analyze hidden information within documentsImplement an effective OSINT-driven threat intelligence programLeverage OSINT techniques to enhance organizational securityWho this book is forThis book is for ethical hackers and security professionals who want to expand their cybersecurity knowledge and stay one step ahead of online threats by gaining comprehensive insights into OSINT tools and techniques. Basic knowledge of cybersecurity concepts is required.

Table of ContentsThe Secrets Hiding in Plain Sight – Unveiling the Power of OSINTInvisible and Untouchable – The Importance of Anonymity in OSINT AnalysisThe OSINT Toolbox – Methods and Techniques for Gathering and Analyzing InformationExploring the Unknown – How Discovery Tools Reveal Hidden InformationFrom Recon-ng to Trace Labs – A Tour of the Best Open Source Intelligence ToolsThe Eyes and Ears of Threat Intelligence – How OSINT Helps Mitigate Cyber RisksProtecting Your Identity and Organization from Cyber Threats

349 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 29, 2024

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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
Profile Image for Riley Forester.
46 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2025
The beginning was useful and I’m glad to have a reference book for tools. The end turned more into a blue team book. Like other reviewers, I also wish it went a lot deeper and had more practical examples.

For example how do I make my own webscraper that is useful? He barely scratched the surface.

Overall I found it helpful and plan on revisiting it for jobs but hopefully v2 will be thicker.
Profile Image for John Fredrickson.
751 reviews24 followers
September 23, 2025
The issue with this book is depth. Meredith does a good job in covering the 'plethora' (a favorite word of his) of tools that are available to do OSINT work, but does not really get into details about what to do with these tools. Much of the context of why and when one would use these tools, and how one would use the results is omitted.

The result is a collection of tools, many of which promise to be extremely useful for an investigator who knows what they are doing. This is not a book that would be useful to a beginner in OSINT, but it does highlight tools that would be worthy to explore.
6 reviews
September 29, 2025
Great book but too much of theory

I think this book is awesome. But lack a lot of content. There is more theory than practical. Like the writer said OSINT can be active or passive. But I rarely see the active side in the book. I was expecting that. No dark web OSINT. Not much to work with. But I appreciated the Google hacking session. Great. The mentioning of tools without a proper use....
Profile Image for Adam Hartz.
8 reviews
August 22, 2025
Solid survey of technical OSINT methodology. Lots of mentions of tools and techniques, with fewer in depth walkthroughs or tutorials. But if you’re looking for a primer into the world of open source intelligence and have a little bit of technical knowledge, this will give you the foothold to dive in further.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews

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