IT Forensics · OSINT

Verifying fake news using OSINT – Forensically examining claims using publicly available sources

False claims about a company or an individual can often be assessed by systematically cross-referencing them with reliable, publicly available sources.

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In the context of existing reputation or crisis situations, we carry out a systematic assessment to determine whether a publicly made claim is supported by reliable sources.

Why LanCologne?

Since its foundation, LanCologne has specialised in professional IT forensics. Our staff have decades of experience in the field of information technology and assist companies, solicitors, private individuals and, on a regular basis, the courts in the technical investigation of complex digital matters.

Our OSINT investigations are always carried out as a complementary component to existing IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries. Every step of the investigation and every piece of digital evidence found is documented and, where technically possible, archived to ensure traceability even if the original online content is subsequently altered or deleted.

Our services

We research publicly available sources relating to a relevant claim and document the comparison with reliable reference sources in a manner that is forensically verifiable.

Typical areas of application

Verification of publicly circulated claims against their sources
Supplementing reputation and crisis investigations
Assistance with preparing a correction
Documentation for disputes relating to press law
Judicial and non-judicial expert reports
Collaboration with solicitors and communications departments

This is how fake news is verified

The claim in question is systematically cross-checked against reliable, publicly available reference sources; its origin, the channels through which it has been disseminated and any apparent contradictions are documented.

Why is the verification of fake news relevant from a forensic perspective?

A documented review of sources provides an important basis for a factual examination of a false claim.

Forensic documentation of the chain of distribution may also be relevant for legal proceedings under press law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does LanCologne determine whether a statement is true or false?+
We document the comparison with publicly available sources in a manner that is forensically verifiable; the final assessment of the content and legal implications is the responsibility of the client or their legal advisers.
Is the source of a claim also investigated?+
As far as can be ascertained from publicly available sources, yes.
Is this verification combined with reputation monitoring?+
Yes, the two methods often complement each other as part of a comprehensive examination.

LanCologne – IT Forensics OSINT Cologne

Do you require a professional OSINT investigation into „Verifying fake news using OSINT"? LanCologne can assist you with the transparent, documented analysis of publicly available digital sources to complement your IT forensic, legal or internal corporate enquiries.

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