The Investigator's Guide to Online Research & OSINT

eBook Edition

Mastering Open Source Intelligence for the Modern Investigator

By Tony Bennett, MSc

Step into the world of digital investigation with The Investigator's Guide to Online Research & OSINT—your essential manual for uncovering hidden information online. Written by former British Transport Police detective and intelligence professional Tony Bennett, this eBook is a practical, UK-focused toolkit for investigators, researchers, journalists, compliance officers, and OSINT enthusiasts alike.

Why This Book?

In today's data-driven world, knowing how to legally and ethically extract intelligence from the internet is a game-changer. Whether you're tracking digital footprints, uncovering online personas, or profiling companies, this guide walks you through real-world methods, platforms, and tools used by professionals in the field.

What You'll Learn:

• The foundations of OSINT and how it's applied in UK policing


• How to safely and legally gather intelligence from the web


• Techniques for searching people, companies, and hidden online data


• Guidance on creating investigation personas and safeguarding your digital footprint


• Tools for video analysis, QR code decoding, image metadata extraction, and more


• AI-powered techniques for online research


• Sample logs, checklists, and policies for real-world application

Whether you're new to investigations or a seasoned professional seeking structured guidance, this eBook will sharpen your digital edge