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Nico Dekens is an experienced all-source intelligence analyst and the founder of Dutch Osint Guy Intelligence Services, specializing in Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), online Human Intelligence (HUMINT), and digital investigations. With a deep passion for intelligence gathering, analysis, and online investigations, Nico has dedicated over 20 years to the field, including extensive experience within Dutch law enforcement. Throughout his career, he has worked on a wide range of cases, from high-profile homicide and international narcotics investigations to tracking stolen art, gang violence, and online extremist networks. He has also conducted covert virtual HUMINT operations and counterterrorism investigations.
Recognized in the OSINT community as @Dutch_OsintGuy, Nico is a well-known trainer and consultant, providing expertise in OSINT methodologies, risk assessment, security awareness, and structured team workflows. As a co-founder of the OSINTCurio.us project, he actively contributes to the growth and development of OSINT professionals worldwide.
Driven by a mission to enhance global security, Nico pursued OSINT and cyber intelligence to help safeguard communities and stay ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape. His commitment to continuous learning and knowledge-sharing has led him to train thousands of professionals in government and private sectors, including the development of OSINT units within the Dutch government.
Nico is a SANS instructor for SEC497: Practical Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and is the lead author of SEC587: Advanced OSINT Gathering and Analysis. His teaching philosophy revolves around practical, real-world application, emphasizing a dynamic exchange of knowledge between instructor and student. He is also a faculty member at the SANS Technology Institute, a recognized NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
Among his most impactful achievements, Nico takes pride in his role in preventing terrorist attacks and tracking down child predators. His contributions have earned recognition from organizations such as Europol, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), NATO, and Dutch law enforcement. Additionally, the Dutch Military Cyber Intelligence and Cyber Defense department has formally expressed gratitude for his efforts.
In 2023, Nico was named Open Source Intelligence Champion of the Year by the OSMOSIS Institute in recognition of his contributions to the field. His professional credentials include certifications as a Police Detective, Operational Intelligence Analyst, Tactical Intelligence Analyst, Strategic Intelligence Analyst, Open-Source Intelligence Analyst, Cyber Intelligence Tradecraft Professional, and Online Counterterrorism Specialist.
Podcasts and Talks
- Live Stream: Building on the Foundations of OSINT with SEC587: Advanced Open-Source Intelligence, November 2021
- SANS @ MIC Talk – Leveraging Telegram for OSINT purposes, August 2020
- Tech Tuesday Workshop – Introduction to OSINT Video & Image Verification, June 2020
- SANS @ MIC Talk – Using the OSINT Mind-State for Better Online Investigations, May 2020
- Operations Security (OPSEC) tradecraft tips for online Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Research, January 2020
- Recorded Future Podcast episode 142 – The Physical and the Digital of Open Source Intelligence
- Tech against terrorism podcast : The power and responsibility of Open Source Intelligence
- Layer8 podcast – Spot the Jihadi
- The Pivot: Make The World A Safer Place With OSINT
Publications
- Nico’s website: https://dutchosintguy.com/
More
- You can read his personal blog here: https://medium.com/@DutchOSINTguy
- Nico is the co-founder of The OSINT Curious: https://OSINTcurio.us/Â
- Research with Amsterdam University about Online Radicalisation: https://www.digitalmethods.net/Dmi/Radicalengagement
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Latest Posts by Nico Dekens
Open Source Intelligence (OSINT): What It Is, How It Works, and Why It Matters (+ Tools, Techniques & Use Cases)
Discover the power of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), an essential tool that transforms publicly available data into actionable insights. Learn about its history, methodologies like web scraping and social media monitoring, and the ethical considerations that guide its responsible use.
How Does OSINT Make It Hard for Cybercriminals to Work?
OSINT leverages publicly available data from the surface, deep, and dark web to detect cyber threats, uncover cybercriminal activities, and enhance proactive defense. It aids in threat intelligence, exposing identities, and supporting law enforcement to disrupt malicious operations.
The 13 Biggest OSINT Investigation Challenges
Conducting OSINT investigations can be challenging, with issues like information overload, data quality verification, technical skills, legal considerations, and misinformation. Overcoming these hurdles requires the right tools, methodologies, and expertise to streamline efforts and ensure actionable insights.
The Significance of AI and ML in OSINT to Human Investigators
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) excel in processing vast amounts of data swiftly. During open-source intelligence (OSINT) investigations, you almost always gather information in overwhelming volumes. AI algorithms can efficiently sift through this data, identifying patterns and relevant information significantly quicker than a human ever could.
OSINT Methods To Investigate Suspected AI Generated Content
The proliferation of content generated by artificial intelligence (AI) is just beginning. Recent years haveseen online accounts, run by bots, create fake news articles, divisive social media posts, fraudulentproduct reviews, and more. As mainstream access to AI tools spreads, the opportunities to use thetechnology for malicious purposes are on the rise.
OSINT Observations from ShadowDragon Experts: Moldova
NicoDekens, Director of Intelligence and Innovation Collection, ShadowDragon