OSINT, or Open-Source Intelligence, is the process of gathering and reviewing publicly available information to support an investigation. This may include websites, email addresses, phone numbers, social media profiles, domain records, blockchain explorers, public databases, news sources, and other online records.

For crypto fraud investigations, OSINT can help connect digital clues, preserve important evidence, identify scam patterns, and better understand how a victim was contacted or targeted. OSINT does not replace law enforcement or legal action, but it can help organize facts and support clearer reporting.