The Chinese internet, also known as the "Great Firewall of China," presents unique challenges for researchers looking to conduct open-source intelligence (OSINT) analysis. With strict government censorship and monitoring, finding and accessing information can be difficult. Yet, it is possible to undertake efficient OSINT research on the Chinese internet with the proper tools and methodologies. Here are some tips for conducting OSINT research on the Chinese internet:
Use VPNs and proxies: To access websites that are blocked in China, researchers can use virtual private networks (VPNs) or proxies. These tools can help researchers access information that would otherwise be unavailable.
Understand Chinese search engines: Chinese search engines, such as Baidu, are different from Western search engines like Google. It is important to understand how these search engines work and what search terms to use to find the information you need.
Use Chinese-language tools: Chinese-language OSINT tools, such as Sogou and Youdao, can be used to search for Chinese-language content that may not be available through Western search engines.
Monitor social media: Social media platforms like WeChat and Weibo are popular in China and can provide valuable insights into Chinese social and political issues. Researchers can use tools like WeiboScope to monitor these platforms and identify trends and patterns.
Work with local contacts: Having local contacts can be invaluable when conducting OSINT research on the Chinese internet. These contacts can provide insights into local issues and help researchers navigate the Chinese internet and proper slang.
Examples of OSINT tools for searching the Chinese internet include:
Baidu: Baidu is the most popular search engine in China and can be used to search for Chinese-language content. Researchers can use Baidu to find news articles, social media posts, and other content that may not be available through Western search engines.
WeiboScope: WeiboScope is a tool for monitoring Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform. Researchers can use WeiboScope to search for keywords and hashtags, identify trends and patterns, and track the spread of information.
China Digital Times: China Digital Times is a website that provides news and analysis about China. The website includes a section called "Grass-Mud Horse Lexicon" that provides translations and explanations of Chinese internet slang and memes.
Youdao: is a Chinese-language search engine that can be used to search for Chinese-language content. Researchers can use Youdao to find news articles, social media posts, and other content that may not be available through Western search engines.
Sogou: Sogou is another Chinese-language search engine that can be used to search for Chinese-language content. Researchers can use Sogou to find news articles, social media posts, and other content that may not be available through Western search engines.
In conclusion, conducting OSINT research on the Chinese internet requires different techniques and tools than Western internet research. By understanding Chinese search engines, using Chinese-language tools, monitoring social media, working with local contacts, and using OSINT tools designed for the Chinese internet, researchers can gather valuable information and insights on Chinese social and political issues as well as relevant intelligence.
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