UNLOCKING INSIGHTS: osint flash briefings
In an ever-evolving landscape of global security threats, staying informed and prepared is crucial. Flash briefings are concise, timely updates on critical events or issues that pose challenges to law enforcement, national security, defense, financial intelligence, or corporate security.
These briefings provide actionable insights and intelligence, enabling swift and effective responses to emerging threats. By leveraging advanced open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools, flash briefings help organizations stay ahead of potential risks and make informed decisions to protect communities and assets.
UK RIOTS: Identifying violent protest activity
Following a tragic mass-stabbing in Southport on July 29, 2024, the UK faced a surge of violent protests fueled by online misinformation from far-right groups. Fivecast Tradecraft advisers used the OSINT platform Fivecast ONYX to monitor and track violent calls to action on social media, providing timely insights to help investigators mitigate risks to the community.
Exposing Networks through PAI: Sinaloa Cartel
Transnational organized crime poses a significant global security threat by using online networks for illicit activities. Open-source intelligence (OSINT) is vital in disrupting these networks by providing actionable insights. The recent capture of key cartel figures, including “El Mayo” and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, significantly impacts the cartel’s operations.
Disrupting Tax Refund Fraud
In 2023, the IRS flagged 87,591 fraudulent tax returns, preventing $1.2 billion in unauthorized refunds. Despite this, detecting fraudulent payments remains challenging. Fraud, especially tax fraud, is a growing global issue. Open-source intelligence tools can help unmask criminal networks, visualize digital footprints, and flag vulnerabilities in tax systems.
Disrupting mail-centric scams and check fraud
Mail theft and fraud remain significant challenges for financial institutions, law enforcement, and the public. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) recently reported a surge in mail-related check fraud in the U.S. Fivecast’s open-source intelligence revealed networks involved in fraudulent checks and mail theft methods, highlighting the growing sophistication of these crimes.
Identifying Chinese Disinformation
Unverified reports about a high-ranking military official’s health crisis led to the spread of false narratives online. Disinformation, blending truth with lies, is challenging to counter. Fivecast Tradecraft advisors used Fivecast ONYX’s advanced open-source intelligence to uncover a Chinese-led disinformation campaign, identifying related social media posts, images, accounts, and networks.
Identifying ‘Ghost Gun’ Dealers on Social Media
Ghost guns, privately made firearms from kits or 3D printers, are increasingly used by individuals unfit to hold a firearms license. This trend challenges law enforcement as dealers use social media to promote and distribute these untraceable weapons. Tradecraft Analysts have utilized open-source intelligence to identify ghost gun dealers on platforms like Telegram and the Dark Web.
Disrupting the Fentanyl Supply Chain
The influx of fentanyl and its precursor chemicals is a growing threat. To combat this, we need to identify and dismantle the sources and distribution networks involved. Often, like legitimate businesses, these illicit businesses advertise and network on social media. Learn how enforcement agencies can disrupt these networks to reduce the supply and distribution of fentanyl.
FBI’s Most Wanted: Parental Kidnapping
Parental kidnapping cases, especially across borders, are uniquely challenging. Advanced OSINT tools help law enforcement track fugitives via social media, ensuring children’s safe return. Their capabilities were crucial in identifying the digital footprints of two individuals on the FBI’s Parental Kidnapping Most Wanted List, aiding in reuniting families and enhancing child safety.
