ABSTRACT
The Dark Web is regularly viewed as a place where illicit activity occurs, however, there is significantly more to the dark web than the simply transaction of illegal goods. This presentation will explore dark webs across three primary areas of concern. Firstly, we will develop a deeper understanding of the information systems that contribute to the network and look at techniques to better leverage this information for intelligence gains. Secondly, we will unpack how dark web networks can be observed at a macro and non-technical level to inform shifts in geopolitical and social dynamics within contested or oppressive environments, which can be critical to understanding emerging anonymous communication pathways in those environments. Finally, we will take a closer look at intellectual property theft that is propagating on the dark web and the potential impact for the Defence industry. The talk is aimed at all audiences from decision makers to technical practitioners and steered towards the thematics of military communications & information systems.

BIOGRAPHY
Chris is the Founder & CEO of OSINT Combine who are leaders in open-source intelligence training & software with support to counter-human trafficking, counter-terrorism, law enforcement & other strategically important efforts around the world. He spent over a decade in the Australian Defence Force with extensive operational experience around the world. He has an established background working in military and law enforcement environments domestically & overseas, with proven outcomes in developing open-source intelligence capability to multi-national teams that service strategic and operational objectives where the cyber, human and physical terrain overlap. Additionally, he is the creator of NexusXplore, a leading OSINT software platform that is trusted globally in supporting complex mission sets in the open source environment. His understanding of the nexus between the physical & digital terrain positions him as a leader in open-source intelligence.