Open-Source Intelligence can have both positive and negative impacts on vulnerable populations such as domestic violence and stalking victims. We will discuss the ways that OSINT has been used in the past to target victims and how it may evolve in the future. Then, pivoting from the negative, we take a look at how non-profit organizations are beginning to use OSINT for good. I will show some examples of OSINT models being used to help victims of crimes regain control of their situation and how OSINT professionals are using it to keep victims safe. Finally, we will look at ways that you, as a security professional, can use your skillset to promote change and have a greater understanding of the importance of privacy, empathy, and safety for victims.
Rae Baker (@wondersmith_rae) is a student at The Pennsylvania State University studying Information Systems Technology with a focus on Cybersecurity. Rae specializes in Open Source Intelligence and currently works as a Cyber Security Analyst Intern with IACI at NASA-Kennedy Space Center. Rae is also the current President of the Penn State World Campus Technology club and is very active in organizing speaking engagements, networking, planning events, and presenting education to the club on current vulnerabilities and foreign and domestic threats. In addition, she is an Open Source Intelligence volunteer with Operation Safe Escape, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit comprised of security professionals tasked with keeping domestic violence victims hidden from their abusers.