Which term describes the collection of publicly available information that can be used for actionable intelligence?

• A. Signals intelligence
• B. Open-source intelligence
• C. Human intelligence
• D. Closed-source intelligence

Answer: (B)

Open-source intelligence is the collection of publicly available information that can be used for actionable intelligence. This includes data from websites, news outlets, public records, forums, social media, and government publications—anything accessible without special privileges. By analyzing these sources, you can assemble useful insights such as an organization’s technology stack, exposed assets, or potential risk factors, all without accessing private data. This stands in contrast to signals intelligence, which gathers non-public electronic signals; human intelligence, which comes from information provided by people; and closed-source intelligence, which refers to information not publicly accessible. OSINT is a fundamental part of reconnaissance because it uses open, legal sources to build a clear picture for decision-making.