An Analysis of Cyber OSINT: Dimensions, Consequences, and Countermeasures Against Ambiguous and Unknown Threats

Bayat, Asghar; Soltaninasab, Ebrahim; Dolatabadi, Abdolah

An Analysis of Cyber OSINT: Dimensions, Consequences, and Countermeasures Against Ambiguous and Unknown Threats

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Ph.D, Department of Political sciences, Islamic Azad University, Shahreza, Isfahan, Iran. a.dolatabadi89@gmail.com

² Corresponding author, Ph.D., Department of Future Studies Managment, Faculty of Strategic Management, University of Superme National Defence University, Tehran, Iran. E-mail: saeedsoltaninasab@gmail.com

³ Ph.D, Department of Social sciences and Sociology, Faculty of Literature, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. E-mail: abdolah.dolatabadi@gmail.com

Abstract

In the contemporary era, publicly available data is generated and disseminated at an accelerating rate, making Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) one of the most critical resources for security-related information collection and analysis. Although a substantial body of research has explored the applications of OSINT, its analysis within the framework of unknown threats has received comparatively less attention. This study aims to investigate the dimensions and implications of OSINT as an unknown threat, employing a descriptive-analytical research method and relying on library research and documentary analysis. The findings indicate that OSINT encompasses three key dimensions—operational, technological, and strategic—whose interplay can facilitate the emergence of unknown threats. At the operational level, challenges related to data collection, filtering, and validation may lead to the dissemination of inaccurate information. At the technological level, while the adoption of artificial intelligence and big data has enhanced analytical capabilities, it has also enabled large-scale misuse. At the strategic level, the absence of legal frameworks and analytical expertise can distort security decision-making processes. This study concludes that OSINT represents a security paradox, functioning both as an opportunity and a threat. The primary contribution of this research lies in proposing an integrated analytical framework that demonstrates how the inherent characteristics of OSINT—including its openness, velocity, and accessibility—can transform it into a breeding ground for unknown threats. Finally, practical strategies are suggested, including the development of legal frameworks, the enhancement of validation technologies, the training of specialized human resources, and the strengthening of inter-organizational cooperation.

Keywords

20.1001.1.30605865.1404.3.3.5.4

Main Subjects

Strategic Management attitude

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