Open Source Intelligence, OSINT, offers a unique approach to teaching risk awareness and digital literacy, surpassing many traditional education methods. It’s a powerful digital skill that allows you to gather essential information from a wide range of publicly available sources like social media, news articles, government sites, and more. In a world where data is at your fingertips, the ability to collect and analyze open-source information has never been more crucial. From cybersecurity to politics, OSINT is an essential tool that empowers you to make well-informed decisions, support investigations, and stay ahead of emerging trends and threats.
This summer, CYRENZH members Leyla Ciragan and Melanie Knieps, together with practice partner Tom Hofmann, have been tiredlessly working to develop video content on OSINT techniques, methodologies, and the context and norms surrounding this powerful tool. Meanwhile, Markus Christen is finalizing a series on ethical considerations, contributing to our goal of educating students equipped to make informed choices about their own data and fully leverage the opportunities presented by the digital age.
This fall (HS24), we’re launching a 3 ECTS course where students will learn to: (a) use OSINT tools and techniques to gather and interpret information, (b) implement Operational Security measures to manage investigations discreetly, (c) adopt best practices for documenting, assessing, and effectively reporting findings, and (d) recognize and navigate legal and ethical considerations to ensure proper conduct within legal boundaries.
UZH and ETH students can apply for the course here.