Editing Open-source intelligence (section)

=== 4. Operational Security (OPSEC) Tools ===
As OSINT practitioners often conduct sensitive or public investigations, maintaining personal safety and operational security is critical. Analysts may employ various tools to protect their identity and digital footprint. Ryan Fedasiuk, an analyst at the Center for Security and Emerging Technology, recommends several OPSEC best practices and tools, including:

* Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
* Cached webpage services (e.g., Google Cache, Wayback Machine)
* Digital archive services
* URL and file scanners (e.g., VirusTotal)
* Browser sandbox applications
* Antivirus software

These tools help reduce exposure to potential threats when conducting online investigations, especially when researching adversarial or high-risk subjects.[2]