CRC Press Internet Searches for Vetting, Investigations, and Open-Source Intelligence: Internet Searches for Vetting, Investigations, and Open-Source Intelligence, Second Edition

In the information age, it is critical that we understand the implications and exposure of the activities and data documented on the Internet. Improved efficiencies and the added capabilities of instant communication, high-speed connectivity to browsers, search engines, websites, databases, indexing, searching and analytical applications have made information technology (IT) and the Internet a vital issued for public and private enterprises. The downside is that this increased level of complexity and vulnerability presents a daunting challenge for enterprise and personal security. Internet Searches for Vetting, Investigations, and Open-Source Intelligence provides an understanding of the implications of the activities and data documented by individuals on the Internet. It delineates a much-needed framework for the responsible collection and use of the Internet for intelligence, investigation, vetting, and open-source information. This book makes a compelling case for action as well as reviews relevant laws, regulations, and rulings as they pertain to Internet crimes, misbehaviors, and individuals’ privacy. Exploring technologies such as social media and aggregate information services, the author outlines the techniques and skills that can be used to leverage the capabilities of networked systems on the Internet and find critically important data to complete an up-to-date picture of people, employees, entities, and their activities. Outlining appropriate adoption of legal, policy, and procedural principles―and emphasizing the careful and appropriate use of Internet searching within the law―the book includes coverage of cases, privacy issues, and solutions for common problems encountered in Internet searching practice and information usage, from internal and external threats. The book is a valuable resource on how to utilize open-source, online sources to gather important information and screen and vet employees, prospective employees, corporate partners, and vendors. Review I was excited to hear CRC Press was releasing Internet Searches for Vetting, Investigations, and Open-Source Intelligence, by Edward J. Appel, a retired FBI agent. His company has done work for me so I knew the quality of his work and assumed his book would be at the same level as his investigative efforts. I wasn't disappointed. … Appel develops a framework for preparation and planning of successful Internet research. He covers basic information about search engines, metasearch engines, social networking sites and search terms. I found the chapters Automation of Searching and Internet Intelligence Reporting to be the most enlightening. … delivers with content and is an easy read. It met my criteria for a successful investigations book … .―Larry Zilliox, in the PISA Newsletter, April 2011 "The author gives a sober assessment of the challenges faced by any person engaged in Internet investigations and intelligence gathering but does not present an overly bleak picture. I highly recommend this work for private security professionals."―Rich Petraits in Security Management, December 2011 About the Author Edward J. (Ed) Appel, Sr., is owner-principal of iNameCheck, a boutique private investigative, consulting, and training firm. He is a retired FBI special agent and executive, specializing in counterintelligence and terrorism, and served as the director of counterintelligence and security programs at the National Security Council and the White House.