The 404 Media Podcast The Shifting World of OSINT (with Craig Silverman)
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Dec 29, 2025 
Craig Silverman, co-founder of Indicator.media and seasoned journalist, dives deep into the world of OSINT and digital forensics. He discusses the challenges of fact-checking in changing beliefs and shares insights on ethical considerations in verification. Craig also highlights the evolution of OSINT and its commercialization, revealing the rise of fraudulent accounts and the complexities of ad fraud. Tune in to discover useful resources for honing your OSINT skills and the importance of maintaining integrity in digital investigations.
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Limits Of Fact-Checking
- Fact-checking rarely changes minds when claims are tied to identity and social belonging.
- Fact-checkers are more effective at influencing behavior where opinions are not deeply held.
Pivot After Facebook Paid Fact-Checkers
- Craig shifted away from viral debunking after Facebook started funding third-party fact-checkers in 2016.
- He decided not to take Facebook money and broadened his focus to other forms of digital manipulation.
From Blog To Verification Expert
- Craig began with a media-accuracy blog in 2004 and grew into verification because nobody else covered it.
- He became a go-to expert by documenting practices and teaching verification methods.