The concept of OSINT in the field of public order and safety

The article examines the essence and specific features of the concept of open-source intelligence (OSINT) in the field of ensuring public order and security. It is demonstrated that the relevance of the study is due to the increasing number of offences that leave digital traces in the open information environment, as well as the need to improve not only the administrative and legal regulation of the activities of authorized bodies in this field, but also the development of a coherent conceptual and categorical framework. Scientific approaches to defining OSINT in foreign and domestic sources are analyzed. The generalization of scholarly definitions has made it possible to identify a unified set of OSINT characteristics, namely: its activity-based nature, focus on obtaining information, exclusive use of open sources, and application of collection and analysis methods without the use of coercive or covert means. Particular attention is paid to the absence of a clear definition of OSINT in Ukrainian legislation and to its correlation with operational-search activities, investigative journalism, and other forms of information processing. It is substantiated that legal uncertainty creates risks for the admissibility of the obtained data, complicates the interpretation of the powers of public authorities, and hinders international cooperation. The article proposes an original definition of OSINT in the field of public order and security as a legally regulated activity of authorized bodies aimed at the targeted acquisition, verification, and analysis of open information in order to identify threats, establish persons involved in offences, and ensure that they are brought to legal responsibility. The article concludes that further theoretical conceptualization of OSINT as an independent area of information and analytical activity in the field of public security is advisable. The importance of unifying approaches to understanding OSINT in order to ensure legal certainty and consistency of law enforcement practice is emphasized. Attention is drawn to the necessity of taking international experience into account when shaping a national model of legal regulation of the use of open-source information. The results of the study may be used in scholarly research, law-making, and law enforcement activities.