The rise of open-source intelligence

European Journal of International Security, vol. 10, pp. 530–544

Abstract

Abstract This article challenges the perception of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) as a revolutionary shift driven by the explosion of publicly accessible data. Instead, we argue that the rise of OSINT reflects an evolution of traditional intelligence practices: the collection, processing, analysis and dissemination of vast amounts of information. While the exponential growth of open–source data is reshaping the intelligence landscape, it is neither revolutionizing nor democratizing intelligence. Rather, it is prompting both state and non–state actors to explore how best to integrate OSINT practices and enhance digital literacy within their communities. Core OSINT challenges – information overload, reliability, and legal and ethical concerns – remain consistent with broader intelligence issues. Addressing these challenges provides a foundation for consolidating OSINT as a community of practice, and linking it to debates on the disputed role of security expertise in the public debate.

Authors 2

1. Damien Van Puyvelde corresponding Aachen Institute of Security and Global Affairs Associate Professor

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Institute of Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University

   Associate Professor, Institute of Security and Global Affairs, Leiden University, The Hague, Netherlands

2. Fernando Tabárez Rienzi
   Affiliation as printed

   Centre for Information Resilience

   Centre for Information Resilience, London, UK