Open-Source Certified (OSC): Shaping the Future of OSINT Through Certification
Last updated
Last updated
OSINT is the practice of gathering information from publicly available sources to analyze and interpret. Some common sources include social media, news media, property records, and websites. OSINT plays a crucial role in investigations and decision-making. Individuals using open-source range from law enforcement to cybersecurity professionals.
I recently took the Open-Source Certified (OSC) examination by OSMOSIS Institute. This article is my personal review of the exam experience and the content. I was selected to be a beta tester for the exam and provide feedback.
I will start by saying that a study guide is currently being created for the exam. The exam is still in its early stages, and the OSMOSIS Institute has done a wonderful job of considering the feedback provided by the beta testers.
Now, you're probably wondering how I personally prepared for the exam. I had the wonderful advantage of attending the OSINT Academy in the late Fall of 2023. That is a unique story that I will share in my next article. (Trust me, it deserves its own article!) It's important to share that I also have a criminal justice background that has engrained in me the importance of ethics.
Why is this important? Oh! It is!
This exam is best for those beginning their journey into OSINT. So many different courses and materials are available in open-source research that you must stand out. How? Being an OSINT Analyst is a profession; you have to remain in legal compliance, maintain integrity, and avoid bias.
OSMOSIS Institute requires at least 75 hours of practical application time the year prior. (This can be done by part-time, full-time, volunteer/apprenticeship) If you are not an OSMOSIS member, you must sign an ethics statement before the exam.
(BTW, to join OSMOSIS is free!)
The Open-Source Certified exam was built by senior practitioners and teachers. It includes 100 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes. To pass, you must score 70% or higher. Currently, the exam is available in person and virtually for $200. (Keep an eye out, I usually see them running special deals)
I want to end this article by stating that I could have done some light reviewing before taking the exam. I wasn't sure what to expect, and it was my first OSINT certification exam. My mind tends to imagine the worst possible scenario before an exam. If this sounds like you, know that you're not alone.
I'm incredibly fortunate to have taken the exam and obtained the certification. OSINT Analysts must establish a set of recognized knowledge, skills, and competencies. We aren't just your average crime sleuths; we are ethical professionals. The Open-Source Certified exam is a step in the right direction.
If you've chosen to take OSINT seriously, give the exam a shot!
To learn more about the Open-Source Certified exam, visit:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaritagiron/
Personal Blog: https://www.mrsosint.com
navigates an inspiring career transition driven by her passion for technology and investigative sciences. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Criminology and a Bachelor of Science in University Studies. Margarita has diligently worked to break into a cybersecurity role for the past year and a half. Her professional development includes a specialized digital forensics track from Purdue University's Cybersecurity Workforce Training, an OSINT Specialist Investigator certification from the OSINT Academy, and a recent Open-Source certification from the Osmosis Institute. Beyond her professional pursuits, Margarita is deeply committed to community service; she volunteers with a nonprofit organization to support the Hispanic community in tech and collaborates with another nonprofit dedicated to combating human trafficking. Her diverse skills and commitment to making a difference empower her continued exploration of digital investigation and open-source intelligence.