"This report presents a framework for understanding the modern practice of open source intelligence. It reviews the literature on open source intelligence and reexamines definitions used in other areas by the U.S. Intelligence Community in the context of modern open source information. The report describes the evolution of open source intelligence over the past 50-plus years, defines open source information and the open source intelligence cycle, and draws parallels between open source as an intelligence discipline and other intelligence disciplines. It also examines the methods used by open source tools and the challenges of using off-the-shelf technology for open source analysis. It concludes by suggesting areas for further study."--Publisher's description.

"Prepared for the Office of the Secretary of Defense"--Title page.

Introduction -- Rethinking OSINT as an Intelligence Discipline -- OSINT Tools and Methods -- Conclusion.