Which type of intelligence involves collecting data through public sources?

Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) refers specifically to the practice of gathering and analyzing information that is publicly available. This type of intelligence leverages information from a wide variety of sources, including news articles, websites, academic publications, and social media. Its value lies in the accessibility of the data and the potential insights that can be gleaned without requiring clandestine or sensitive methods.

By focusing on publicly available information, OSINT supports situational awareness and strategic planning across various fields, including national security, law enforcement, and market research. Unlike other intelligence types, which may rely on classified or secretive sources, OSINT is about using openly accessible material, making it a vital element of comprehensive intelligence-gathering efforts.