Training Description: 

Part 1: Search with Intent: OSINT Essentials for People and Platforms Search:

Online investigations can feel overwhelming, especially with the rapid evolution of platforms, tools, and techniques. This session provides a clear starting point for analysts looking to build confidence in OSINT research. Learn how to leverage reliable resources for identifying personal information—such as names, emails, usernames, and phone numbers—alongside effective methods for searching major social media platforms including Facebook and Snapchat. Through practical examples and straightforward guidance, this lecture highlights how to identify key data points, evaluate platform-specific behaviors, and build a dependable OSINT toolkit you can apply immediately. Perfect for analysts seeking focused, efficient strategies to uncover valuable insights across open sources and social networks.

Part 2: Modern Methods: Practical Tools for Online Information:

Digital investigations can feel overwhelming, especially with the constantly shifting techniques required to collect and interpret online information. This session introduces a streamlined set of practical tools and methods to help analysts build confidence in their technical workflows. You’ll see how browser developer features and well-chosen extensions can support social media reviews, how source code can reveal critical identifiers, and how lightweight utilities can assist with video capture, conversion, and analysis. The session also highlights useful free resources—including tools for extracting text from images with OCR—that enhance efficiency and reduce manual effort. This lecture provides clear guidance on assembling a reliable technical toolkit to support more effective and efficient online research.

Presenter Biography:

Lauren Wagner is the Program Manager of Cybercrime and Digital Forensics for SEARCH, The National Consortium for Justice Information and Statistics. She delivers training and technical assistance to justice agencies on cybercrime investigations, digital forensics, and OSINT methodologies. Since 2005, Lauren has developed innovative techniques for leveraging social media and digital intelligence, contributing to hundreds of successful arrests and prosecutions. In 2009, she received the Award for Excellence in Instruction from California POST ICI. Lauren is passionate about equipping investigators with the tools and knowledge to tackle emerging cybercrime challenges. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-wagner-osint