Verification and OSINT training

We run a programme of training for journalists focused on building skills and techniques in identifying, analysing and reporting on mis-and disinformation. We ensure our workshops are interactive, example-driven and above all, fun for journalists of all varieties.

How it works

• We run modules on specific topics in the field of open-source intelligence (OSINT), verification and identifying AI-generated content, based on the experience and skills of our team of journalists from 15 years of fact checking.
• The modules can be half- or full-day in length. Some newsrooms choose to mix-and-match a number of modules over multiple days, or arrange repeats of modules to suit large teams.
• We run these in-person for outlets with rooms available and we also have access to a space in Vauxhall, London, for an extra room-hire cost. For smaller outlets or individuals, we run online courses.
• We can cater for up to 30 participants for an interactive seminar-style workshop. For larger numbers, we can run a talk with breakout sessions and some interactive elements.
• Participants only need a laptop to participate. We can also make reasonable adjustments to remove barriers to learning that participants may have, please discuss these with us and we will make every effort to include everyone.

Who this is for

We've helped train hundreds of journalists throughout our time as a charity, and we've been able to tailor workshops to suit organisations of all sizes. These courses are most relevant:

• If you run a newsroom or team of professional journalists
• If you're a smaller outlet or charity with a team who want to develop their OSINT skills
• If you're a freelance journalist or have previously worked in journalism, and you're looking to grow your CV.

We offer discounted rates for charities, and will offer bespoke quotes based on how much training you'd like and the size of your team. Just get in touch through the form at the bottom.

Choose your modules

This covers the analysis skills involved in research and statistical content, within and outside of politics. It covers:

• Strategies for effective fact checking
• Effective use of search engines
• Understanding who and what to trust as a source

This looks at the skills involved prior to research, including critical thinking, scoping claims, and triaging potential stories. It includes:

• Identifying potential problems or unanswered questions
• Understanding the different types of misinformation
• Editorial decision-making and sniffing out the best story

The focus here is on verifying image, video and audio content. We look at the process for finding out the veracity of different forms of online content. The skills covered include:

• Archiving and capturing examples of misinformation
• Reverse image and video searching
• Advanced search functions
• Investigating social media accounts and their background
• Accessing the right expertise and standards of proof

A deep-dive into the specific OSINT skills surrounding geolocation, including:

• Using clues and reference points to narrow the field
• Using geo search tags to narrow the field of content on social media
• Using Google Earth, Wikimapia and Sentinel open data to pinpoint locations

This session focuses exclusively on the issues and misinformation types brought about by the rise of AI-generated and manipulated content. It covers:

• Understanding the different types of manipulation, and the latest capabilities of the leading software
• How to identify potentially manipulated content through spotting clues and common pitfalls

This is a practical session focused on putting a team into a live simulation and requiring collaboration to produce a fact checking output. The skills covered include:

• Live fact-checking to tight deadlines in response to a developing situation or debate
• Co-ordinating a response as a team, assigning roles and managing an editorial process
• Communicating analysis and research in short, accessible formats for general consumption

Get in touch

We will give quotes depending on the package you're looking for and the size of your team. Please contact us using the form below and our Training Manager will respond and set up a call as soon as possible.