Discussion: The OSINT Framework (osintframework.com) — Is It Still Your Go-To?
Hey everyone,
I wanted to start a thread on the most central resource for anyone involved in Open Source Intelligence (OSINT): The OSINT Framework located at osintframework.com.
For those unfamiliar, this site is an expansive, interactive mind-map that organizes links to hundreds of tools and resources for public data collection, from deep username checks to domain research, image analysis, and financial tracing. It’s the essential public directory for anyone looking to structure an investigation.
I’m curious to hear the community’s thoughts on its current state and its utility, especially with how quickly links and tools break in the OSINT landscape.
My Questions for the Community:
- Is the OSINT Framework Still Your Core Starting Point? When you start an investigation, is this the first place you click, or have you evolved to using your own refined, private list of verified tools?
- The "Outdated Link" Problem: How often do you run into dead links, obsolete tools, or resources that have been replaced by shady domain squatters? How do you vet a new tool you find on the framework before running a query?
- Best Tool/Section? What is one section or specific tool listed on the framework that you find consistently reliable and still actively maintained?
- Security/OPSEC Concern? Since the framework just links out to third-party services, what are your best practices for maintaining OPSEC (Operational Security) when jumping from link to link? (e.g., specific VPN settings, using dedicated VMs/sandboxes, not accepting cookies, etc.)