Open Source Investigations Analyst

The Open Source Investigations Analyst at ZeroFox is responsible for conducting extensive online investigations to gather information from publicly available sources, such as social media and forums. You will create detailed executive assessments, travel reports, and investigate persons of interest, translating findings into actionable reports that support our clients’ security needs.

To be considered for the Open Source Investigations Analyst position at ZeroFox, you should have at least two years of experience in open-source investigations or social media analysis. A strong background in using investigative tools, excellent communication skills, and the ability to assess information credibility are also crucial for this role.

At ZeroFox, we believe in fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. As an Open Source Investigations Analyst, you will have opportunities for professional development through workshops, training sessions, and access to cutting-edge investigative resources. We encourage participation in industry-related events and seminars to enhance your skill set.

In the role of an Open Source Investigations Analyst at ZeroFox, you will use advanced search techniques and various investigative tools including popular online resources like LexisNexis and CLEAR. You will also be proficient in utilizing the Google Suite for your analytical processes, ensuring you maximize the effectiveness of all online investigations.

ZeroFox stands out as a workplace for Open Source Investigations Analysts thanks to its community-driven culture, generous compensation packages, and commitment to employee well-being. Our respect for diverse perspectives and our focus on innovation in cybersecurity creates a nourishing environment where your contributions matter and your professional growth is prioritized.

To approach an open-source investigation effectively, I would begin by clearly defining the objectives. I would gather initial information and identify the most relevant sources, utilizing advanced search techniques to sift through social media, forums, and other platforms. Documenting my findings meticulously would be key, ensuring I connect the dots and present comprehensive and actionable insights.

When verifying the credibility of online sources, I look for the authors' credentials, cross-reference information with multiple reliable platforms, and check the publication date for relevance. Consistency of the information across various channels significantly helps determine reliability, and I’m careful to differentiate between opinion pieces and fact-based reports.

In a recent investigation, I analyzed social media patterns to track a potential threat actor. By correlating their online activity with public events, I was able to identify a planned breach and alerted the appropriate stakeholders. This preemptive action resulted in a successful averting of the situation, showcasing the importance of timely intelligence.

I stay updated on emerging threats by following industry blogs, joining relevant professional networks, and participating in webinars. Subscribing to threat intelligence feeds and attending cybersecurity conferences also ensures I’m aware of the latest trends and methodologies in open source investigations.

When presenting findings, I ensure clarity and conciseness. I typically start with a summary of the investigation's background, followed by the main findings, using visual aids where appropriate. Applying models like BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front) helps in communicating critical insights quickly and effectively, enabling decision-makers to grasp the essentials right away.

Challenges in open-source investigations can include information overload, as vast amounts of data are available. Distinguishing noise from actionable intelligence requires strong analytical skills. Additionally, dealing with the ethical implications of certain types of data can be a concern, necessitating a thorough understanding of legal boundaries.

In high-volume investigations, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and relevance to the threat at hand. I first identify key areas that require immediate attention and allocate time effectively, often using tools to track progress and keep my focus. Flexibility allows me to adapt as new insights emerge throughout the investigation.

I have extensive experience conducting social media investigations, which involves analyzing user behavior, interactions, and public content to uncover patterns. I leverage various tools specifically designed for social media analysis, ensuring I comply with ethical standards and methods when collecting and interpreting data.

I'm well-versed in the intelligence cycle, which includes the phases of planning, collection, analysis, dissemination, and feedback. Each phase plays a critical role in producing reliable and actionable intelligence. Understanding this cycle allows me to streamline investigations and enhance overall analytic accuracy.

I approach disagreements in a team setting with open communication and a willingness to listen. It's essential to respect different perspectives while working towards common goals. I would advocate for discussing evidence and reasoning collaboratively, which not only resolves conflicts but can also lead to more robust findings through diverse input.