NeedleStack Intelligence tradecraft in the digital age
Aug 6, 2025
Join an engaging discussion featuring a former street cop turned OSINT expert who shares an inspiring journey into the world of open-source intelligence. Explore the evolution of network analysis and its early challenges in the digital age. Delve into the transformative role of AI in intelligence, balancing speed with the need for critical thinking. The talk highlights the risks of data leakage and bias, emphasizing the essential skills analysts must retain while navigating the complexities of digital investigations.
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From Street Cop To OSINT Pioneer
- Nico started as a street cop and quickly moved into analysis because he loved puzzles and data.
- Early OSINT work on youth gangs revealed online footprints that contradicted internal records and changed investigations.
How Early Web Data Linked People Easily
- Early internet sources were bulletin boards and IRC where people often exposed personal emails and phone numbers.
- Nico used usernames and simple pivots to link online accounts to real-world identities easily back then.
Demand Proper Digital Tools
- Fight for proper digital tools and training; digital investigators need hardware and software like street cops need gear.
- Insist leadership funds basic capabilities (laptop, connection) to avoid operational failure.