Open-Source Intelligence: Investigations, Litigation Strategy, Due Diligence in a Complex Digital Environment

This CLE webinar will examine how open-source intelligence (OSINT) and publicly available information can be used by attorneys to support investigations, develop litigation strategies, and conduct due diligence in an increasingly complex digital information environment.

The volume of publicly accessible and commercially available data continues to expand, creating both opportunities and risks for legal practitioners. Attorneys must understand how information is collected, processed, and analyzed. Proper use of OSINT can strengthen case development, assist in locating witnesses and assets, support background investigations, and help counsel better evaluate claims and defenses.

This program will provide a practical overview of OSINT terminology, data sources, and collection methods relevant to legal practice. The presenter will explain how intelligence community analytic tradecraft can be applied to legal investigations. The session will also address emerging trends in the information environment, including AI, AI-generated deepfakes, and the increasing complexity of online data ecosystems.

Participants will gain familiarity with the differences between the Surface Web, Deep Web, and Dark Web, as well as understand the legal and operational risks associated with information collection. The program will emphasize how OSINT techniques can be appropriately integrated into litigation support and investigative workflows.

Listen as the presenter provides practical guidance on identifying relevant data sources, evaluating reliability, managing risk, and applying OSINT methods to strengthen investigations and legal strategy.