Description


Social media has changed the game for cops, and knowing how to use it effectively is key to staying ahead of criminals. This course gives officers the tools to navigate the digital world, gather intelligence, and build stronger cases. Led by expert instructor Nick Jerman, Social Media and Open-Source Investigations helps you master online investigations while keeping yourself—and your family—safe.
You’ll learn how to track down users across multiple platforms, link accounts, analyze images for hidden clues, and preserve critical data for court. The course also covers the essential tools, apps, and legal steps you need to make sure everything you gather stands up in court.
What You’ll Learn
- Navigating Social Media
Learn how to find and exploit information on major—and lesser-known—platforms. - Investigative Techniques
Discover ways to link usernames, phone numbers, and IDs across networks to build leads. - Image and Geolocation Analysis
Pull valuable clues from photos, including location data and context. - Legal Compliance
Learn how to preserve evidence and write subpoenas and search warrants that hold up in court. - Essential Tools
Get free resources and recommended software to help you dig deeper. - OSINT Skills
Stay ahead of criminals by mastering Open-Source Intelligence search techniques.
By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to add social media and digital investigations to your toolbox—helping you build solid cases, keep yourself safe, and serve your community more effectively.





