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Web Crawler for OSINT on POIs

Kylo P edited this page Aug 11, 2023 · 1 revision

Introduction:

Open-source intelligence (OSINT) is a crucial component of modern security and protection measures. With the proliferation of social media and online platforms, individuals often inadvertently share information that can be valuable for security assessments. For executive protection, especially in the context of FortiPath, understanding the online behavior and intentions of Persons of Interest (POIs) can provide early warning signs and enhance the overall security posture.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of the web crawler is to:

  • Monitor the online presence and activities of POIs.
  • Identify any indications or intentions of the POIs to attend the same event as the principal or client.
  • Detect any signs that suggest the POIs are in the vicinity or have plans to be in the area of the principal or client.

Functionality:

  • Input List: The crawler accepts a list of POIs. This list can include names, known aliases, or any other identifiers. Platform Search: The crawler searches major social media platforms (like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) and other online platforms for profiles or mentions of the POIs.
  • Content Analysis: Once a profile or mention is identified, the crawler analyzes the content for any indications related to the principal's event or location. This could be in the form of posts, tweets, check-ins, photos, or any other shared content.
  • Alerts: If a potential match or indication is found, the system can generate an alert for further analysis by the protection team.

Benefits:

  • Proactive Approach: Instead of reacting to threats, the protection team can proactively identify potential risks and adjust their strategy accordingly.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: By automating the OSINT process, the crawler ensures that no potential indication is missed, providing a comprehensive coverage of the online landscape.
  • Time-Efficient: Manual OSINT can be time-consuming. The crawler automates the process, freeing up valuable time for the protection team.

Integration with FortiPath:

The web crawler can be seamlessly integrated into FortiPath's existing infrastructure. The results from the crawler can feed into the overall risk assessment, enhancing the quality of protection measures. Additionally, the crawler's findings can be presented in a user-friendly manner within FortiPath's interface, ensuring that the protection team has easy access to this valuable intelligence.

Conclusion:

In the digital age, the online behavior of individuals can provide valuable insights into their intentions. By implementing a web crawler focused on OSINT for POIs, FortiPath can significantly enhance its ability to identify potential threats and ensure the safety of its clients and principals.