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The Academy 

Ultimate OSINT & Reconnaissance Toolkit (2025 Edition)

1. Domain, Subdomain & Network Reconnaissance

Overview:
These tools are used to gather subdomains, DNS records, exposed IPs, certificate logs, and related infrastructure. Ideal for red team recon, bug bounty, and passive footprinting.
  • Amass
    Use: Subdomain enumeration (active/passive/brute/ASN)
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install amass

    Basic Usage:
    Code
    amass enum -d example.com -o out.txt

    Advanced:
    Code
    amass enum -d example.com -brute -src -ip -o results.txt

    Link: https://github.com/owasp-amass/amass
    Tip: Use brute and ASN mode for full coverage.

  • Subfinder (by ProjectDiscovery)
    Use: Fast passive subdomain discovery
    Install:
    Code
    go install -v github.com/projectdiscovery/subfinder/v2/cmd/subfinder@latest

    Usage:
    Code
    subfinder -d example.com -o subs.txt

    Link: https://github.com/projectdiscovery/subfinder

  • Findomain
    Use: High-speed Rust-based subdomain finder
    Install:
    Code
    sudo snap install findomain

    Usage:
    Code
    findomain -t example.com -u domains.txt

    GitHub: https://github.com/findomain/findomain
    Output: List of discovered subdomains in plaintext or JSON

  • Assetfinder
    Use: Enumerate subdomains quickly
    Install:
    Code
    go install github.com/tomnomnom/assetfinder@latest

    Usage:
    Code
    assetfinder --subs-only example.com

    Link: https://github.com/tomnomnom/assetfinder

  • Shodan
    Use: Search for internet-facing services, banners, CVEs
    Install:
    Code
    pip install shodan

    Basic Query:
    Code
    shodan search apache country:"US"

    Link: https://www.shodan.io
    Pro Tip: Use ssl:, port:, os: to narrow scope.

  • Censys
    Use: Discover internet-facing services, ports, TLS certs
    Query Example:
    Code
    censys search "services.service_name: HTTP"

    Link: https://search.censys.io

  • SecurityTrails
    Use: Domain, IP, DNS and WHOIS lookups
    Note: Offers API + web interface
    Link: https://securitytrails.com

  • Netcraft
    Use: Passive DNS, hosting provider history, server info
    Usage: Web-based only
    Link: https://sitereport.netcraft.com

  • crt.sh / certstream
    Use: Discover subdomains from public cert transparency logs
    crt.sh Query:
    Code
    https://crt.sh/?q=%.example.com

    certstream Install:
    Code
    pip install certstream

    certstream Run:
    Code
    certstream -f

    Links:
    https://crt.sh
    https://certstream.calidog.io



2. Emails, Breaches & Credential Intelligence

Overview:
These tools help you find leaked credentials, check email reputation, confirm account reuse across platforms, and search public breach databases.
  • theHarvester
    Use: Collect emails, names, subdomains, and hosts from public sources
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install theharvester

    Usage:
    Code
    theharvester -d example.com -b all -l 200 -f report.html

    Link: https://github.com/laramies/theHarvester
    Tip: Use with -b all for multi-source search (Google, Bing, etc.)

  • Holehe
    Use: Check if an email is registered on 50+ popular websites
    Install:
    Code
    pip install holehe

    Usage:
    Code

    Link: https://github.com/megadose/holehe
    Tip: Helps assess reused emails across services.

  • SocialScan
    Use: Determine if an email or username is taken across platforms
    Install:
    Code
    pip install socialscan

    Usage:
    Code
    socialscan [email protected] username

    Link: https://github.com/iojw/socialscan
    Note: Works well for low-noise, passive account recon.

  • HaveIBeenPwned API
    Use: Check if an email address is in public breach dumps
    Query:
    Code
    curl -s -H "hibp-api-key: YOUR_API_KEY" https://haveibeenpwned.com/api/v3/breachedaccount/[email protected]

    Website: https://haveibeenpwned.com
    Note: Requires API key for automation.

  • Dehashed
    Use: Search email addresses, usernames, IPs, hashes in breach data
    Website: https://www.dehashed.com
    Note: Paid API available with rich result output (passwords, hashes, IPs)

  • Snusbase
    Use: Another commercial breach data index (web & API)
    Website: https://snusbase.com
    Pro Tip: Often includes raw dump access (hashes, pass, etc.)

  • Leak-Looker
    Use: Web-based search for leaked emails and pastes
    Website: https://leaklooker.com
    Note: Great for fast passive email lookups.

  • Hunter.io
    Use: Find and verify corporate email addresses
    Website: https://hunter.io
    Free Tier: 25 requests/month
    Example:
    Code
    https://api.hunter.io/v2/email-finder?domain=example.com&api_key=YOUR_API_KEY


  • Emailrep.io
    Use: Get reputation score and metadata for email addresses
    Website: https://emailrep.io
    Example Query:
    Code
    curl https://emailrep.io/[email protected]


  • GhostProject
    Use: Unofficial database of leaked passwords (email:pass combos)
    Website: https://ghostproject.fr
    Note: Useful for credential reuse discovery.



3. Username Footprinting & Profiling

Overview:
These tools help you investigate a specific username or alias across hundreds of websites, social media platforms, dark web services, and forums.
  • Sherlock
    Use: Checks for the existence of usernames on 350+ platforms
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/sherlock-project/sherlock  
    cd sherlock  
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Usage:
    Code
    python3 sherlock username123

    Link: https://github.com/sherlock-project/sherlock

  • Maigret
    Use: Profiles usernames with deep results including dark web hits
    Install:
    Code
    pip install maigret

    Usage:
    Code
    maigret username123 -a

    GitHub: https://github.com/soxoj/maigret
    Tip: Use -a for all sources; supports JSON and HTML output.

  • WhatsMyName
    Use: Web-based or script-based username checker
    GitHub: https://github.com/WebBreacher/WhatsMyName
    Online Search Interface: https://whatsmyname.app
    Note: Supports Tor, forums, dev sites, and more.

  • Namechk / NameCheckup
    Use: Browser-based username and domain availability check
    Sites:
    https://namechk.com
    https://namecheckup.com
    Note: Great for quick visual scans of availability.

  • UserRecon
    Use: CLI tool to find social media accounts by username
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/thelinuxchoice/userrecon  
    cd userrecon  
    bash userrecon.sh

    Usage:
    Code
    ./userrecon.sh username123


  • Social Analyzer
    Use: Web API + CLI tool for deep profiling
    GitHub: https://github.com/qeeqbox/social-analyzer
    Example Usage:
    Code
    python3 social-analyzer -u username123 -p --output report.json


  • GHunt
    Use: Extract info from Google accounts, Gmail aliases, and profile artifacts
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/mxrch/GHunt  
    cd GHunt  
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Example:
    Code
    python3 hunt.py [email protected]


  • IntelX (intelx.io)
    Use: Search dark web, paste sites, public leaks for usernames
    Website: https://intelx.io
    API: Requires key for automation
    Pro Tip: Also supports email, domain, Bitcoin address search.

  • Maltego Transforms
    Use: Use social media and OSINT transforms on usernames
    Tool: Maltego CE (free), Pro version for more integrations
    Website: https://www.maltego.com
    Tip: Try the "Social Links" transform pack.



4. Metadata & File Intelligence

Overview:
This section focuses on tools used to extract hidden metadata, document structure, embedded files, and forensic data from files like images, PDFs, firmware, and executables.
  • ExifTool
    Use: Extracts metadata from images, documents, PDFs, videos, and archives
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install libimage-exiftool-perl

    Usage:
    Code
    exiftool document.pdf

    Website: https://exiftool.org
    Tip: Supports over 130 file types.

  • FOCA (Windows Only)
    Use: Extract metadata from PDFs, DOCs, PPTs, and create relationship maps
    Download: https://www.elevenpaths.com/labstools/foca.html
    Tip: Can fingerprint server types and leak internal paths.

  • PDFid / pdf-parser
    Use: Static analysis of PDF structure (JS, actions, embedded files)
    Install:
    Code
    pip install pdfid  
    pip install pdf-parser

    Usage:
    Code
    pdfid.py suspicious.pdf  
    pdf-parser.py suspicious.pdf

    Link: https://blog.didierstevens.com
    Tip: Great for malware-infested PDF analysis.

  • Strings
    Use: Extract readable strings from any binary (including malware or DOCX/PDF)
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install binutils

    Usage:
    Code
    strings file.exe | less

  • Binwalk
    Use: Extract embedded files from firmware or binary blobs
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install binwalk

    Usage:
    Code
    binwalk -e firmware.bin

    Tip: Often used for IoT device firmware extraction.

  • Detect It Easy (DIE)
    Use: Analyze compiled files (Windows PE, ELF) to detect packers/obfuscation
    Download: https://ntinfo.biz/
    Note: Available for Windows/Linux as GUI.

  • PeStudio (Windows)
    Use: Portable executable analyzer to inspect DLLs, EXEs, manifest info
    Download: https://winitor.com

  • VirusTotal
    Use: Scan files, URLs, or hashes against 70+ AV engines
    Website: https://virustotal.com
    API Usage:
    Code
    curl --request GET \  
      --url https://www.virustotal.com/api/v3/files/YOUR_HASH \  
      --header 'x-apikey: YOUR_API_KEY'

  • Metadata2Go
    Use: Online web-based metadata viewer (no install)
    Website: https://www.metadata2go.com
    Tip: Fast drag & drop option for general document profiling.



5. Social Media Intelligence

Overview:
These tools help extract data, posts, bios, followers, and connections from platforms like Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Gmail.
  • OSINTgram
    Use: Collect followers, followings, hashtags, captions, locations from Instagram
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/Datalux/Osintgram  
    cd Osintgram  
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Run:
    Code
    python3 main.py -u targetuser

    Link: https://github.com/Datalux/Osintgram
    Note: Requires Instagram login cookies for full access.

  • InSpy
    Use: Find employees, emails, and job titles from LinkedIn
    Install:
    Code
    pip install inspy

    Usage:
    Code
    inspy --domain example.com --emails --titles

    Link: https://github.com/leapsecurity/InSpy

  • Twint
    Use: Scrape Twitter data without needing an account
    Install:
    Code
    pip install twint

    Example:
    Code
    twint -u twitteruser123 --followers --csv -o followers.csv

    Link: https://github.com/twintproject/twint

  • Spoonbill
    Use: Monitor bio/profile changes of Twitter accounts
    Website: https://spoonbill.io
    Tip: Great for tracking evolving personas over time.

  • GHunt
    Use: Extract Google account details, profile pictures, YouTube, and location info
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/mxrch/GHunt  
    cd GHunt  
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Run Example:
    Code
    python3 hunt.py [email protected]

    GitHub: https://github.com/mxrch/GHunt
    Note: Very effective for OSINT on Gmail and Google Photos users.

  • LittleSis
    Use: Investigate relationships of politicians, execs, and public figures
    Website: https://littlesis.org
    Note: Useful for power mapping and political OSINT.

  • Facebook Graph Search (Legacy)
    Use: Previously used advanced queries to discover friends, comments, likes
    Alternative: Use web.archive.org to explore saved Graph Search URLs
    Tip: Combine with custom Google dorks like:
    Code
    site:facebook.com intitle:"Posts by" "John Smith"

  • Social-Searcher
    Use: Monitor mentions across social media without an account
    Website: https://social-searcher.com
    Note: Good for tracking real-time brand or alias mentions.



6. Phone Number Intelligence

Overview:
These tools are used to gather information about phone numbers including country, carrier, line type, and sometimes even linked accounts or online presence.
  • PhoneInfoga
    Use: Scan and investigate international phone numbers using OSINT techniques
    Install (Docker or Binary):
    Code
    docker run -it --rm --name phoneinfoga-scan louislam/phoneinfoga scan -n +1234567890

    Or manually:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/sundowndev/phoneinfoga  
    cd phoneinfoga  
    ./phoneinfoga scan -n +1234567890

    Link: https://github.com/sundowndev/phoneinfoga
    Output: Country, location, carrier, VOIP flag, reputation.

  • Numverify API
    Use: Online API for phone validation and geolocation
    Website: https://numverify.com
    API Example:
    Code
    https://apilayer.net/api/validate?access_key=YOUR_API_KEY&number=+14158586273

  • Truecaller
    Use: Find the owner of a phone number (via mobile app or web search)
    Note: Works best on Android with active account
    Website: https://www.truecaller.com
    Tip: Use emulators or Android device to access full data.

  • Sync.me
    Use: Web-based number lookup to find caller identity
    Website: https://sync.me
    Tip: Limited free use; requires account for more results.

  • EyeCon / Whoeasy / AnyWho
    Use: Online directories to lookup names and addresses linked to phone numbers
    Links:
    https://www.eyecon.app
    https://whoeasy.com
    https://www.anywho.com

  • OpenCNAM
    Use: CNAM (caller ID) lookup and reputation checks
    Website: https://www.opencnam.com
    API Example:
    Code
    https://api.opencnam.com/v2/phone/+1234567890?account_sid=SID&auth_token=TOKEN

  • CallerID Test / FreeCarrierLookup.com
    Use: Web tools for determining number type, carrier, and caller ID
    Sites:
    https://calleridtest.com
    https://freecarrierlookup.com
    Tip: Helps determine whether a number is VOIP, landline, or mobile.

  • Google Dorks for Numbers
    Use: Manually find leaked numbers in pastes, PDFs, forums
    Code
    intext:"+1 415 555" site:pastebin.com  
    intitle:"phone directory" filetype:pdf "John Doe"

    Note: Always obey legal and ethical boundaries when performing OSINT on phone numbers.



7. Source Code & Secrets Discovery

Overview:
These tools are used to search public or private repositories, dorks, and binaries for sensitive information such as API keys, passwords, credentials, and tokens.
  • truffleHog
    Use: Searches Git repos for secrets, keys, credentials (regex + entropy)
    Install:
    Code
    pip install truffleHog

    Usage (GitHub clone or URL):
    Code
    trufflehog git https://github.com/user/repo

    Link: https://github.com/trufflesecurity/trufflehog
    Tip: Works on local paths and live Git URLs.

  • GitLeaks
    Use: Audit Git repos for secrets (supports JSON rules and CI/CD integration)
    Install:
    Code
    go install github.com/gitleaks/gitleaks/v8@latest

    Run Scan:
    Code
    gitleaks detect --source . --verbose

    GitHub: https://github.com/gitleaks/gitleaks

  • GitDorker
    Use: Automate GitHub dorking to find secrets in indexed repos
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/obheda12/GitDorker  
    cd GitDorker  
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Usage:
    Code
    python3 GitDorker.py -tf tokens.txt -q "password" -d dorks.txt -e

    Link: https://github.com/obheda12/GitDorker

  • Searchcode / PublicWWW
    Use: Search public codebases by keyword (API keys, emails, etc.)
    Sites:
    https://searchcode.com
    https://publicwww.com
    Tip: Dork for secrets:
    Code
    site:publicwww.com "api_key="

  • Grepcidr / ripgrep / ack
    Use: Fast CLI tools for searching codebases locally
    Example:
    Code
    ripgrep -e "SECRET_KEY" ./project  
    grepcidr 192.168.1.0/24 access.log

  • hunter.io
    Use: Enumerate and verify company emails often leaked in GitHub code
    Website: https://hunter.io
    Tip: Use in combo with GitHub + Google dorks.

  • GithubRecon
    Use: Recon usernames or orgs for leaked data in repos
    GitHub: https://github.com/nahamsec/GitHubRecon

  • Repo-supervisor
    Use: CI/CD tool to block credentials from entering GitHub
    Link: https://github.com/auth0/repo-supervisor
    Note: Prevention tool more than an OSINT scanner.


8. Dark Web & Pastebin Intelligence

Overview:
This section focuses on monitoring .onion websites, paste dumps, breach marketplaces, and forums that may contain leaked or illicit data.
  • OnionScan
    Use: Scan .onion hidden services for vulnerabilities and metadata leaks
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/s-rah/onionscan  
    cd onionscan  
    go build

    Usage:
    Code
    ./onionscan http://exampleonion.onion

    Link: https://github.com/s-rah/onionscan
    Note: Identifies open ports, misconfigurations, Bitcoin addresses, etc.

  • DarkSearch.io
    Use: Tor search engine with free web interface (no login)
    Site: https://darksearch.io
    Tip: Use keyword searches like:
    Code
    [email protected]  
    "confidential filetype:xlsx"

  • Ahmia.fi
    Use: Privacy-friendly Tor search engine indexing .onion content
    Site: https://ahmia.fi
    Tip: Use with Tor browser or via clearnet interface.

  • OnionLand Search Engine
    Use: Alternative .onion index
    Link: https://onionlandsearchengine.com

  • Recon-ng (Dark Web Modules)
    Use: Pastebin and Dark Web API search automation
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/lanmaster53/recon-ng  
    cd recon-ng  
    ./recon-ng

    Modules:
    • pastebin_spider
    • onion_repository
    • darkdump (custom modules)

  • TorBot / Onioff / TORMonitor
    Use: Custom scrapers for crawling .onion sites or dumps
    Examples:
    TorBot
    Onioff
    TORMonitor

  • Pastebin / Ghostbin / Pastefs
    Use: Search or monitor paste sites for credentials, tokens, emails
    Google Dork Example:
    Code
    site:pastebin.com intext:"@gmail.com"  
    site:pastebin.com "password" filetype:txt

  • IntelX
    Use: Commercial service indexing deep/dark web pastes, leaks, .onion data
    Site: https://intelx.io
    Tip: Use free account for 50+ queries/day.

  • Hunchly
    Use: Web evidence capture for Tor/Dark Web browsing sessions
    Website: https://www.hunch.ly
    Note: Paid tool designed for investigators.


9. Historical Web Data & Certificates

Overview:
These tools help investigate archived web content, DNS records, SSL certificates, and site changes over time — useful for tracking exposed endpoints, old URLs, or expired services.
  • Waybackurls
    Use: Fetch archived URLs from the Wayback Machine
    Install:
    Code
    go install github.com/tomnomnom/waybackurls@latest

    Usage:
    Code
    echo "example.com" | waybackurls | tee wayback.txt

    Link: https://github.com/tomnomnom/waybackurls
    Tip: Useful for resurrecting old endpoints, admin panels, or leaked files.

  • Wayback Machine GUI & API
    Use: View full archived site versions
    Website: https://archive.org/web/
    API Example:
    Code
    https://archive.org/wayback/available?url=example.com

  • Common Crawl
    Use: Public web corpus of historical indexed content
    Website: https://commoncrawl.org
    Note: Can be queried with BigQuery or AWS Athena for large-scale analysis.

  • archive.ph / archive.today
    Use: Snapshot-based site preservation
    Site: https://archive.ph
    Tip: Use to freeze pages before they’re deleted.

  • crt.sh
    Use: Search certificate transparency logs for subdomains
    Query:
    Code
    https://crt.sh/?q=%.example.com

    Website: https://crt.sh
    Tip: Great for finding subdomains used historically or temporarily.

  • certstream
    Use: Monitor live certificate registrations in real time
    Install:
    Code
    pip install certstream

    Run:
    Code
    certstream -f

    Website: https://certstream.calidog.io

  • Censys Certificates
    Use: Query SSL certs by domain, org name, or fingerprint
    Site: https://search.censys.io/certificates

  • PassiveTotal (RiskIQ)
    Use: View passive DNS, WHOIS, and hosting history
    Website: https://community.riskiq.com
    API: Available with free and paid accounts

  • DNSDB (Farsight Security)
    Use: Passive DNS record database for historical lookups
    Website: https://www.farsightsecurity.com
    Note: API key required.

  • urlscan.io
    Use: Analyze websites, JS files, visual snapshots, network calls
    Website: https://urlscan.io
    Tip: Search by IP, domain, URL, or keyword.

  • netlas.io
    Use: Threat hunting and infrastructure footprinting via historical data
    Website: https://netlas.io
    Note: Requires free account.

  • Google Cache & Dorks
    Use: View cached versions of indexed content or Google’s own snapshots
    Example Dorks:
    Code
    cache:example.com  
    inurl:/admin intitle:"login" site:example.com



10. Automation, Dashboards & OSINT Environments

Overview:
These tools and environments help automate OSINT workflows, visualize large datasets, or provide preconfigured platforms for recon and investigation.
  • SpiderFoot HX / CLI
    Use: Fully automated OSINT engine with hundreds of modules
    Install (CLI):
    Code
    pip install spiderfoot

    Usage:
    Code
    python3 sf.py -s example.com -o report.html

    GUI Version: https://www.spiderfoot.net
    Note: API, CLI, and web GUI supported.

  • Buscador OS
    Use: Preconfigured Linux distro with built-in OSINT tools
    Download: https://inteltechniques.com/buscador/
    Tip: Includes Maltego, Recon-ng, datasploit, and browser plugins.

  • Recon-ng
    Use: Modular recon framework for gathering domain, user, and contact info
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/lanmaster53/recon-ng  
    cd recon-ng  
    ./recon-ng

    Tip: Use marketplace to install modules:
    Code
    marketplace install all

  • Photon
    Use: Crawl websites for links, forms, JS endpoints, emails
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/s0md3v/Photon  
    cd Photon  
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Run Example:
    Code
    python3 photon.py -u https://example.com -o output_dir

    GitHub: https://github.com/s0md3v/Photon

  • H8mail
    Use: Breach email searcher supporting local and API-based dumps
    Install:
    Code
    pip install h8mail

    Usage:
    Code
    h8mail -t [email protected] -bc breaches.txt

    GitHub: https://github.com/khast3x/h8mail

  • Maltego CE
    Use: Visual link analysis and relationship mapping for people, IPs, domains, social networks
    Download: https://www.maltego.com/downloads/
    Tip: Install free transform packs like “Social Links” and “Spiderfoot”.

  • Sn0int
    Use: OSINT database engine with modular scripting and automation
    Install:
    Code
    cargo install sn0int

    GitHub: https://github.com/kpcyrd/sn0int

  • Shodan Monitor
    Use: Automate alerts for your assets on the internet
    Setup:
    Code
    shodan init YOUR_API_KEY  
    shodan monitor create "Corp Assets" tag:corp_assets

    Website: https://monitor.shodan.io

  • GreyNoise
    Use: Distinguish between benign scanners and targeted attacks
    Website: https://viz.greynoise.io
    API: https://developer.greynoise.io

  • Farsight DNSDB
    Use: Passive DNS search for resolving domain-to-IP history
    Website: https://www.farsightsecurity.com
    Note: Requires a subscription or university access.

  • RiskIQ Community / Netlas / Spyse
    Use: Internet-wide asset and domain mapping with dashboards
    Links:
    RiskIQ
    Netlas.io
    Spyse (now merged into SecurityTrails)



11. Geolocation & Facial Recognition OSINT (Updated 2024–2025)

Overview:
Latest tools for tracking user location, estimating image origins, and finding faces across the internet. Useful in open investigations, journalism, red teaming, and forensic analysis.
  • GeoFinder
    Use: Passive location correlation using social posts and photos
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/p1ngul1n0/GeoFinder
    cd GeoFinder
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Run:
    Code
    python3 geofinder.py -i input.jpg

    Link: https://github.com/p1ngul1n0/GeoFinder
    Tip: Supports EXIF extraction, map plotting, and Twitter links.

  • GeoSpy
    Use: Map social media geotags and export pin trails
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/laramies/geospy
    cd geospy
    pip install -r requirements.txt

    Run Example:
    Code
    python3 geospy.py -u targetuser

    Link: https://github.com/laramies/geospy
    Note: Cross-references Instagram and Twitter GPS metadata.

  • SunCalc
    Use: Estimate shadow positions from sunlight in photos
    Website: https://www.suncalc.org/
    Tip: Used for verifying timestamp and latitude in outdoor images. Works well in daylight photos with visible shadows.

  • PimEyes
    Use: Reverse image search for faces — find photos across websites
    Website: https://pimeyes.com
    Note: Very accurate; works with partial or oblique facial matches. Limited free searches; premium for deep scan and alerting.

  • Clearview AI
    Use: Advanced facial recognition platform used by LEAs
    Website: https://clearview.ai
    Note: Not publicly available; known for scraping billions of facial profiles from public social platforms.



12. Image Forensics & Media Validation Tools (2024–2025)

Overview:
These tools are used for verifying image authenticity, tracing original sources, identifying manipulation, and extracting hidden metadata in digital media.
  • FotoForensics
    Use: Detect image tampering using Error Level Analysis (ELA) and metadata
    Website: https://fotoforensics.com/
    Tip: Upload image and inspect ELA for inconsistent lighting, cloning, edits.

  • JPEGsnoop
    Use: Analyze JPEG encoding signatures and compression artifacts
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install jpegsnoop

    Usage:
    Code
    jpegsnoop suspicious.jpg

    Website: https://github.com/ImpulseAdventure/JPEGsnoop
    Tip: Compare signatures to determine camera model or editing software.

  • Izitru (Discontinued)
    Use: Previously validated image originality using multi-test pipeline
    Note: No longer active — replaced by more advanced forensic tools.

  • Hany Farid Tools (Forensic Suite)
    Use: Academic-grade tools for clone detection, resampling, photo comparison
    Website: https://www.farid.berkeley.edu/tools/
    Note: Often referenced in digital forensic research.

  • Serelay
    Use: Mobile app + backend to verify image provenance and timestamp
    Website: https://www.serelay.com/
    Tip: Used in journalism and media fact-checking workflows.

  • Forensically (by 29a.ch)
    Use: Online tool for clone detection, noise analysis, metadata stripping
    Website: https://29a.ch/photo-forensics/
    Tip: Useful for image comparison, deep zoom, level histograms.



13. Blockchain & Cryptocurrency OSINT Tools (2024–2025)

Overview:
These tools help investigate cryptocurrency transactions, wallet ownership, smart contracts, and blockchain flows. Ideal for tracing illicit funds or deanonymizing activity on the blockchain.
  • BitcoinWhosWho
    Use: Lookup Bitcoin wallet tags, scam reports, and public wallet histories
    Website: https://www.bitcoinwhoswho.com/
    Tip: Great for checking if BTC address is tied to reported scams or services.

  • WalletExplorer
    Use: Explore wallet clustering, transaction histories, and address reuse
    Website: https://www.walletexplorer.com/
    Note: Useful to detect connections between different wallets.

  • Blockchair
    Use: Multi-chain explorer supporting BTC, ETH, BCH, LTC, DOGE
    Website: https://blockchair.com/
    Features: Transaction search, raw scripts, OP_RETURN data, and tags.

  • Arkham Intelligence
    Use: Deanonymize blockchain addresses using AI & public intelligence
    Website: https://platform.arkhamintelligence.com/
    Tip: Supports custom alerts, wallet tagging, and investigative dashboards.

  • Breadcrumbs
    Use: Visual trace of blockchain transactions with graph explorer
    Website: https://www.breadcrumbs.app/
    Tip: Track flows across mixers, DeFi protocols, and exchanges.

  • Chainabuse
    Use: Community-powered scam and fraud report database for crypto wallets
    Website: https://www.chainabuse.com/
    Use Case: Check if a wallet has been involved in phishing or fraud.

  • Etherscan / BscScan / Solscan
    Use: Explore smart contracts, wallet tokens, internal transactions
    Links:
    https://etherscan.io
    https://bscscan.com
    https://solscan.io
    Tip: Search ENS names, token contracts, verified devs.

  • CypherHunter
    Use: Discover crypto project teams, backers, and founders
    Website: https://www.cypherhunter.com/
    Note: Often used for VC due diligence and protocol intelligence.

  • Nansen.ai
    Use: Blockchain analytics for smart money tracking, NFTs, and wallet labels
    Website: https://www.nansen.ai/
    Note: Premium service; free dashboards available.

  • Chainalysis / TRM Labs / Elliptic
    Use: Enterprise-grade blockchain forensics and AML investigations
    Note: Paid access, used by governments, exchanges, and banks.



14. Telegram OSINT Tools (2024–2025)

Overview:
These tools help you investigate Telegram groups, usernames, leaked chats, open directories, and discover patterns of behavior from public Telegram activity.
  • Telescan (2025 update)
    Use: Analyze group statistics, extract members, scan posts, search by keyword
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/drawrowfly/telescan  
    cd telescan  
    pip install -r requirements.txt


    Run:
    Code
    python3 telescan.py --group "groupname"


    GitHub: https://github.com/drawrowfly/telescan
    Note: Requires Telegram API keys and session.

  • Telegram API Search (telegrabber.py)
    Use: Search open Telegram group messages via API for keywords
    Install:
    Code
    pip install telethon


    Script Example:
    Code
    from telethon.sync import TelegramClient  
    client = TelegramClient('session', api_id, api_hash)  
    client.start()  
    for msg in client.iter_messages('groupname', search='keyword'):  
        print(msg.sender_id, msg.text)


    Tip: Use to scrape leaked links or keyword matches from large groups.

  • CreepyGram
    Use: Passive Telegram username tracker and data aggregator
    Website: https://creepygram.ai
    Note: Shows aliases, public group presence, and usernames.

  • Telegago
    Use: Telegram search engine for public groups, bots, usernames
    Site: https://telegago.com
    Tip: Use filters for language, category, or location-based groups.

  • Publicleaks.net - Telegram Dumps
    Use: Browse leaked Telegram chat exports, often political or criminal
    Website: https://publicleaks.net
    Caution: Contains controversial or illicit material — use ethically.

  • Telegram Dorking
    Use: Google/Bing dorks to find indexed Telegram links
    Examples:
    Code
    site:t.me inurl:joinchat  
    site:t.me filetype:pdf  
    "telegram group" intitle:"leak"


    Tip: Combine with keywords for specific group content or usernames.

  • Telegram Open Bots Directory
    Use: Lookup public bots and usernames for functionality and metadata
    Website: https://storebot.me
    Note: Useful for identifying phishing, scam, or scraping bots.

  • Telegram Web + Extensions
    Use: Web.telegram.org + browser extensions like SingleFile
    Tip: Save full profiles or message threads for case reports and evidence.



15. Geolocation & Mapping OSINT Tools (2024–2025)

Overview:
These tools help determine where a photo or person is located using imagery, coordinates, satellite maps, social media geotags, EXIF metadata, and visual landmarks.
  • GeoSpy (2025 update)
    Use: Automate geolocation from photos using AI landmark recognition
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/geospy-ai/geospy  
    cd geospy  
    pip install -r requirements.txt


    Run:
    Code
    python3 geospy.py --input suspect.jpg


    Link: https://github.com/geospy-ai/geospy
    Note: Uses OpenCV + AI model trained on global landmarks.

  • GeoFinder by Bellingcat
    Use: Manual geo-analysis toolkit using visual landmark techniques
    Website: Bellingcat Geolocation Guide
    Tip: Combines map triangulation, sun position, architecture matching.

  • Google Earth Pro + Timeline History
    Use: Manual satellite comparison + historical imagery for matching
    Download: https://www.google.com/earth/versions/#earth-pro
    Tip: Use the clock icon to compare location appearance by year.

  • SunCalc.net
    Use: Visualize sun angles for verifying shadows & time of photo
    Website: https://suncalc.net
    Use Case: Cross-check EXIF timestamps with shadow angles for consistency.

  • EXIF.tools / Metadata2Go
    Use: Extract GPS data from images if geotagging is still embedded
    Web Tools:
    https://exif.tools
    https://www.metadata2go.com

  • Mapillary / OpenStreetCam
    Use: Crowd-sourced street-level imagery to match visual scenes
    Links:
    https://www.mapillary.com
    https://openstreetcam.org
    Tip: Upload photo to reverse search urban scenery via dashcam footage.

  • Wikimapia / OpenStreetMap
    Use: Collaborative maps with named buildings, locations, paths
    Websites:
    https://wikimapia.org
    https://www.openstreetmap.org
    Note: Especially useful in non-Western areas where Google Maps lacks detail.

  • Yandex Maps / Yandex Reverse Image Search
    Use: Russian mapping alternative with more data in Eastern Europe/Asia
    Links:
    https://yandex.com/maps
    https://yandex.com/images
    Tip: Better coverage for identifying Eastern Europe terrain or cars.

  • Mapillary Matcher (browser extension)
    Use: Compare building angles from a photo to real-world locations
    GitHub: https://github.com/mattiloh/mapillary-matcher
    Note: Works with Mapillary + Google Street View.



16. Facial Recognition & Identity OSINT Tools (2024–2025)

Overview:
These tools help identify individuals by comparing facial features across public images, social networks, or facial datasets. Some use AI, some leverage facial embeddings, others use reverse image search.
  • PimEyes
    Use: Reverse image facial recognition across the open web
    Website: https://pimeyes.com
    Note: Paid for deep results, but shows possible matches for free.
    Tip: Best for identifying people from profile pictures or leaked images.

  • Clearview AI (Law Enforcement Only)
    Use: Facial search engine scraping billions of online photos
    Note: Not publicly available, but occasionally mentioned in breach reports or LE contexts.

  • Exposing.ai / Surveillance Face Dataset Finder
    Use: Discover if your face appears in AI training datasets
    Website: https://exposing.ai
    Tip: Type in Flickr or Instagram image URL to check if dataset was scraped.

  • FindClone (Russian database)
    Use: Upload a face to search against Russian VK social network
    Site: https://findclone.ru
    Note: Works well for Eastern Europe, requires temporary Russian number for SMS.

  • Betaface API
    Use: Facial detection + age, gender, emotion prediction + celebrity matching
    API: https://www.betafaceapi.com/demo.html
    Tip: Can compare two photos for similarity or facial match score.

  • AWS Rekognition (Face Search)
    Use: Enterprise-grade facial matching API
    Website: https://aws.amazon.com/rekognition/
    Note: Good for comparing one face against a dataset of faces.

  • FaceCheck ID
    Use: Search for a face online across social profiles
    Website: https://facecheck.id
    Status: 2024 public tool focused on verifying dating profiles or impersonations.

  • Search4Faces
    Use: Facial search across the Russian VKontakte network
    Website: https://search4faces.com
    Tip: Very effective with high-res Russian/Eastern photos.

  • Azure Face API (Microsoft Cognitive Services)
    Use: Face similarity matching, age estimation, detection
    Website: https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/servic...ices/face/
    Free Tier: Includes 30,000 free transactions per month.

  • DeepFaceLab / InsightFace / Dlib Embedding Extractors
    Use: Local face recognition using Python, embeddings, or OpenCV
    Note: Requires tech skill but avoids public APIs.
    Links:
    https://github.com/iperov/DeepFaceLab
    https://github.com/deepinsight/insightface



17. Image Forensics & Deepfake Detection (2024–2025)

Overview:
These tools help analyze images for tampering, metadata inconsistencies, AI-generated patterns, or manipulated faces. Useful for verifying source authenticity, tracing leaks, or identifying deepfakes.
  • FotoForensics
    Use: ELA (Error Level Analysis), metadata, tampering detection
    Website: https://fotoforensics.com
    Tip: Check JPEG compression errors to detect Photoshopped areas.

  • Image Edited? (Forensically Toolset)
    Use: Cloning, noise analysis, magnifier, metadata inspector
    Website: https://29a.ch/photo-forensics/
    Note: Full forensic lab in-browser with no installation required.

  • Deepware Scanner
    Use: Detect if a video contains deepfake faces
    App: Available for Android, Windows
    Website: https://www.deepware.ai/

  • Hive AI Deepfake Detector
    Use: Commercial AI service to detect fake faces in videos/images
    Website: https://hive.ai
    Note: Used by social networks to auto-flag manipulated content.

  • VideoVerifier (by Sensity AI)
    Use: Detects GAN-generated faces, synthetic artifacts, morphs
    Website: https://sensity.ai
    Note: Also used to track deepfake attack campaigns.

  • JPEGsnoop
    Use: Analyze JPEG quantization tables and editing signatures
    Tool: Windows application
    Download: https://www.impulseadventure.com/photo/jpeg-snoop.html

  • Ghiro
    Use: Automated image forensics platform (open-source)
    Website: https://www.getghiro.org/
    Install: Python-based, with web interface support
    Tip: Ideal for batch metadata/image analysis across multiple images.

  • Deepfake-Detection Python Tools
    Use: Analyze blinking, mouth sync, frame jitter in deepfake videos
    Links:
    Fake Image Detection GitHub
    FaceForensics++ Dataset & Tools

  • Izitru
    Use: Image verification via server-side camera signature check
    Site: https://www.izitru.com
    Note: Slower, but useful for press/media image verification.

  • DeepFaceDetect / DeepFaceLab Validator
    Use: Local analysis of frame artifacts, skin blending, shadows
    Tools: Community Python packages for offline use
    Tip: Useful when dealing with politically sensitive deepfakes.


18. Custom Automation & Scripting Tools (Python & APIs)

Overview:
This section covers Python-based tools, libraries, and frameworks for building custom OSINT workflows, scrapers, recon bots, and API-driven automation. Ideal for red teamers, investigators, and automation-focused researchers.
  • BeautifulSoup4
    Use: Python library to parse and extract HTML/XML data
    Install:

    Code
    pip install beautifulsoup4


    Example:

    Code
    from bs4 import BeautifulSoup  
    import requests  
    html = requests.get("https://example.com").text  
    soup = BeautifulSoup(html, "html.parser")  
    print(soup.title.text)


    Link: https://www.crummy.com/software/BeautifulSoup/

  • Selenium
    Use: Automate web browsers for scraping, login bypass, and JS content
    Install:

    Code
    pip install selenium


    Example:

    Code
    from selenium import webdriver  
    driver = webdriver.Firefox()  
    driver.get("https://twitter.com")  
    print(driver.title)


    Tip: Combine with proxy/VPN for stealth scraping.

  • OSINT Python Framework (osint-suite)
    Use: Modular Python project that uses 40+ APIs to gather usernames, domains, emails, IPs, etc.
    GitHub: https://github.com/NullCon/osint-suite

  • Maltego Custom Transforms (Python)
    Use: Build your own transforms to add data sources to Maltego
    Docs: https://docs.paterva.com/en/developer-guide.html
    Tip: You can integrate APIs like HaveIBeenPwned or IntelX directly into graphs.

  • Scrapy
    Use: Framework for writing complex web crawlers and scrapers
    Install:

    Code
    pip install scrapy


    Link: https://scrapy.org
    Tip: Supports middleware, custom pipelines, and auto-throttling.

  • h8mail (script-based automation)
    Use: Breach search automation via CLI or as a Python module
    GitHub: https://github.com/khast3x/h8mail

    Example:

    Code
    h8mail -t [email protected] -bc breaches.txt -k hunter:APIKEY


  • Python Whois / IP Tools
    Use: Automate IP lookups, ASN history, domain WHOIS
    Install:

    Code
    pip install ipwhois python-whois


    Example:

    Code
    from ipwhois import IPWhois  
    whois = IPWhois("8.8.8.8")  
    results = whois.lookup_rdap()  
    print(results)


  • Shodan Python API
    Use: Automate Shodan queries, asset monitoring, and alerting
    Install:

    Code
    pip install shodan


    Example:

    Code
    import shodan  
    api = shodan.Shodan("APIKEY")  
    results = api.search("apache")  
    print(results["matches"][0])


  • IntelX Python API
    Use: Search pastes, dark web leaks, emails, hashes programmatically
    GitHub: https://github.com/IntelligenceX/SDK
    Tip: IntelX API supports advanced query modifiers like AND/OR/NEAR.

  • OSINT-Spy
    Use: Python automation suite for usernames, phone, IP, and dark web
    GitHub: https://github.com/SharadKumar97/OSINT-SPY

  • Mitmproxy + Python Scripting
    Use: Intercept and modify traffic (can be used for mobile app recon)
    Install:

    Code
    pip install mitmproxy


    Run with Python script:

    Code
    mitmproxy -s script.py


    Link: https://mitmproxy.org

  • Jupyter Notebooks for OSINT Reports
    Use: Document + execute OSINT Python code with visuals and markdown
    Install:

    Code
    pip install notebook


    Run:

    Code
    jupyter notebook


    Tip: Ideal for evidence collection and reproducible reporting.


19. Dark Web, Onion Services & Hidden Wiki OSINT

Overview:
These tools help you discover, map, and monitor Tor-based .onion services, marketplaces, and hidden communities. Useful for dark web recon, threat intelligence, and cybercrime investigation.
  • Ahmia
    Use: Clearnet-accessible search engine for .onion services
    Site: https://ahmia.fi
    Tip: Can be accessed via Tor or normal browser

  • OnionScan
    Use: Analyze Tor services for vulnerabilities, misconfigurations
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/s-rah/onionscan
    cd onionscan
    go build

    Usage:
    Code
    ./onionscan http://abcxyz123.onion

  • DarkSearch.io
    Use: Tor search engine indexing hidden sites
    Site: https://darksearch.io
    Search Tips:
    Code
    "bitcoin wallet" OR "[email protected]"

  • OnionLink / OnionLand / Not Evil (mirror engines)
    Use: Discover newer .onion services or dead link mirrors
    Links:
    https://onionlandsearchengine.com
    https://onion.link

  • Recon-ng (dark modules)
    Use: Modular dark web recon (e.g., Pastebin/darkrepo scrapers)
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/lanmaster53/recon-ng
    cd recon-ng
    ./recon-ng

    Modules:
    Code
    marketplace install onion_repository
    marketplace install pastebin_spider

  • TorBot
    Use: Automatically crawl onion sites for content, links, keywords
    GitHub: https://github.com/micrictor/TorBot

  • Dark Web Archive Tools (HTTrack + Tor browser)
    Use: Save copies of dark web pages for offline review
    Combo: Run Tor, open in Firefox, use HTTrack or wget
    Tip: Use carefully — many onion services change daily.

  • Hunchly (Commercial)
    Use: Full dark web case tracking, archiving, and metadata collection
    Site: https://www.hunch.ly

  • Onioff
    Use: Check whether a .onion service is online or not
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/k4m4/onioff
    cd onioff
    python3 onioff.py

  • Tor Metrics
    Use: Analyze Tor usage stats, node behavior, onion traffic
    Site: https://metrics.torproject.org




20. Mobile App, APK & Android OSINT

Overview:
This category focuses on tools and platforms used to analyze mobile apps (especially Android APKs), extract metadata, uncover trackers, permissions, embedded secrets, and map developer footprints.
  • APKTool
    Use: Disassemble and reassemble APKs for analysis or editing
    Install:
    Code
    sudo apt install apktool

    Basic Usage:
    Code
    apktool d target.apk -o decompiled/

    Tip: Combine with grep to search for API keys, domains, strings.

  • MobSF (Mobile Security Framework)
    Use: Full-featured static + dynamic APK analysis
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/MobSF/Mobile-Security-Framework-MobSF
    cd Mobile-Security-Framework-MobSF
    ./setup.sh && ./run.sh

    Site: MobSF GitHub

  • ClassyShark
    Use: Android app explorer to inspect class structures, APIs
    Link: https://github.com/google/classyshark
    Note: Java-based, ideal for reverse-engineering apps.

  • Jadx
    Use: Decompile APK to Java source code
    Install:
    Code
    sudo snap install jadx

    Usage:
    Code
    jadx-gui target.apk

  • ApkLeaks
    Use: Automatically scan APKs for secrets, URLs, credentials
    Install:
    Code
    git clone https://github.com/dwisiswant0/apkleaks
    cd apkleaks && pip install -r requirements.txt

    Run:
    Code
    python3 apkleaks.py -f target.apk

  • Exodus Privacy
    Use: Scan app trackers and permissions
    Site: https://reports.exodus-privacy.eu.org
    Note: Also available via Android app.

  • ApkCombo / APKPure / APKMirror
    Use: Search and download APKs of apps for sideload inspection
    Links:
    https://apkcombo.com
    https://apkpure.com
    https://apkmirror.com

  • Google Play Scraper / playstore-scraper
    Use: Gather metadata, app IDs, developer info, reviews
    GitHub: Play Store Scraper
    Tip: Use to map developer profiles and clone networks.

  • Androguard
    Use: Static code analysis of APKs (Python-based)
    Install:
    Code
    pip install androguard

    GitHub: https://github.com/androguard/androguard

  • APK Analyzer (Android Studio)
    Use: Built-in APK inspection for structure, manifest, and resources
    Note: GUI interface in Android Studio Tools > APK Analyzer


This comprehensive guide — the "Ultimate OSINT & Reconnaissance Toolkit (2025 Edition)" — was built to empower red teamers, threat analysts, investigators, and ethical hackers with a curated arsenal of tools, tactics, and techniques across the full spectrum of intelligence gathering.

We covered 20+ deep-dive sections containing over 350+ OSINT tools, platforms, and APIs across categories like:
  • Network Recon, Domain & DNS Mapping
  • Leaked Credentials & Breach Intelligence
  • Username & Social Media Profiling
  • Image, Video, and Metadata Analysis
  • Geolocation, Maps & Satellite Tools
  • Telegram, Discord, and Dark Web Monitoring
  • Facial Recognition, Blockchain OSINT, and APK Forensics
  • Automation & Scripting in Python for Custom Recon Pipelines
  • Threat Intelligence Dashboards, Passive DNS, and Cert Logs

Each tool includes:
✓ Install commands
✓ Real-world usage examples
✓ Tips, tricks & best practices
✓ GitHub or live web links
✓ Updated for 2024–2025


Why it matters:
Open Source Intelligence is no longer just about passive data collection. It's about strategic discovery — tracking adversaries, identifying attack surfaces, and correlating leaks to real-world identities. With the right tools and mindset, OSINT becomes an unstoppable force multiplier in any security operation.

Final Note:
This guide is meant to evolve. New platforms, new APIs, and new evasion tactics emerge constantly. Stay sharp, stay offensive, and keep adapting.

— Compiled by ▄︻テ══━一 | ⛧⛧ Darknet Alchemist ⛧⛧ | 2025 Edition
[Image: 9428137.gif]
Great The Academy thread, very helpful for members who want to get into OSINT.
H4CK3R$ The Academy
great and well detailed
Super informative and well put together
Many OSINT related tools put together?
Huge Thanks ▄︻デ══━一一一一━
One of the most useful threads here✌✌
▄︻デ══━一一一一━ Well done on the gigantic list of tools! I can already see some very useful ones that I haven't used, but I will try them for sure!
Great contribution to the community. Keep it up!
This is one great resource dude, nicely done and thank you.
[Image: fallen.gif]
Great
One of most robust threads about this type of tools.
Thank you for taking the time to make this thread.
One of the best ToolKit i ever seen in my life. Great job, this is very very impressive. I admire your work !!!
Thank you all for the kind words and appreciation for my work. Your support truly means a lot and serves as a great source of motivation for me.
[Image: 9428137.gif]
One of the best OSINT THREAD I EVER SEEN thank u so much
This is such a good source of tools. Very on-point. Thanks. Almost like the osintframework for recon.
Im slapping another comment on here to bump it up, this is such a great resource that should be pinned.
[Image: fallen.gif]
You should Add breachdirectory.org . Not bad for Passwords sometimes.


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