Intelligence Gathering Disciplines & Methods
Intelligence is organized into disciplines based on how data is collected. Understanding these disciplines helps you know what types of information exist, where they come from, and how to use them.
OSINT — Open-Source Intelligence
Intelligence from publicly available information — media, internet, government reports, academic publications, and commercial data. The foundation of SitDeck.
GEOINT — Geospatial Intelligence
Intelligence from imagery and geospatial data. Satellite imagery, GIS, mapping, terrain analysis, and location-based intelligence.
SIGINT — Signals Intelligence
Intelligence from intercepted signals. Divided into COMINT (communications) and ELINT (electronic emissions like radar).
HUMINT — Human Intelligence
Intelligence collected through interpersonal contact — interviews, interrogation, liaison relationships, and clandestine sources.
TECHINT — Technical Intelligence
Intelligence from foreign technology — weapons systems, equipment analysis, industrial processes, and technology transfer tracking.
MASINT — Measurement & Signature Intelligence
Intelligence from scientific and technical sensors — nuclear radiation, seismic waves, chemical signatures, electromagnetic pulses.
CYBINT — Cyber Intelligence
Intelligence from cyberspace — network traffic, malware analysis, vulnerability research, dark web monitoring.
FININT — Financial Intelligence
Intelligence from financial transactions and monetary flows — money laundering, terrorism financing, sanctions evasion detection.
SOCMINT — Social Media Intelligence
Intelligence from social media platforms — content analysis, network mapping, sentiment analysis, and geolocation.