PI PI Digital Investigation and OSINT 2

Question 1

When conducting a reverse image search during an investigation, a PI is attempting to:

Accepted Answer

Find other locations where the same image appears online

Answer

A reverse image search allows a PI to find other websites or profiles where the same image has been used, which can expose fake identities or reveal additional information about a subject.

Question 2

Which tool category is most commonly used by PIs to aggregate publicly available data about an individual from multiple sources?

Accepted Answer

People-search aggregator sites

Answer

People-search aggregator sites compile publicly available records such as addresses, phone numbers, and relatives, making them a common and legal OSINT resource for PIs.

Question 3

A PI discovers that a subject uses the same username across multiple platforms. This technique of linking accounts is called:

Accepted Answer

Username correlation

Answer

Username correlation is a passive OSINT technique where a PI identifies that the same username appears across multiple platforms, allowing them to build a more complete profile of the subject.

Question 4

Under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA), a PI could face criminal liability for:

Accepted Answer

Accessing a protected computer without authorization

Answer

The CFAA criminalizes unauthorized access to protected computers, meaning PIs who access accounts or systems without authorization—even if passwords are guessed—can face federal charges.

Question 5

What is 'geo-fencing' data and how might it legally appear in a PI investigation?

Accepted Answer

Location data tied to a specific geographic area that may be included in discovery materials

Answer

Geo-fencing data links digital activity to a specific geographic area; a PI may encounter it through legally obtained court records, civil litigation discovery, or public data sources.

(PI) Certified Private Investigator Practice Test

(PI) Certified Private Investigator Practice Test

PI PI Digital Investigation and OSINT 2