Tips and Tools for Uncovering Online Scams

Online scams have become borderless threats that evolve rapidly in scale, sophistication, and impact. From fraudsters using the Internet to steal to phishing networks that engage in social engineering and trick individuals, scams are often backed by organized criminal groups that exploit weak law enforcement, jurisdictional loopholes, and digital anonymity.

For investigative reporters, uncovering the individuals, platforms and financial flows behind these operations is essential to protect the public interest and expose the broader systems that enable online fraud. More money is being lost to online scams and cybercriminals than ever before, according to the FBI.

In this webinar, investigative journalists from around the world will gain practical strategies and tools for tracking, verifying, and reporting on online scams. Whether you’re new to the topic or looking to deepen your expertise, this session provides advice for impactful reporting on one of the world’s most urgent issues.

Antonio Baquero is a journalist based in Barcelona. He joined OCCRP in 2020 and is an investigative editor covering Europe and beyond. Before that, he made his professional career at El Periódico Catalunya, where he served as a correspondent in North Africa, specializing in migration, as well as a war reporter in Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. He participated in OCCRP’s series Scam Empire.

Damien Leloup is an investigative reporter for Le Monde, with a strong focus on tech and the tech industry, and collaborative projects (e.g., Pegasus project, Uber Files). He also covers scams big and small, from the gray economy of affiliate marketing to dropshipping and investment scams.

Hera Rizwan is a reporter with BOOMLive India. She investigates cyber scams, online fraud, digital threats, and the intersection of technology with society.

Nyakerario Omari is a Nairobi‑based fact‑checker and investigative journalist with experience in open source reporting, data research, and digital verification. She currently works at Code4Africa.

The moderator is Craig Silverman, an award-winning investigative journalist, digital investigations/OSINT trainer, and public speaker. Cofounder of The Indicator and GIJN Digital Threats Online Course Lead Trainer.
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The Global Investigative Journalism Network is an international association of journalism organizations that support the training and sharing of information among investigative and data journalists—with special attention to those from repressive regimes and marginalized communities.

Our key activities include:

Providing resources and networking services to investigative journalists worldwide;
Publishing in multiple languages and on multiple platforms the latest tools, techniques and opportunities for those in the field;
Helping organize and promote regional and international training conferences and workshops;
Assisting in the formation and sustainability of journalism organizations involved in investigative reporting and data journalism around the world;
Supporting and promoting best practices in investigative and data journalism;
Supporting and promoting efforts to ensure free access to public documents and data worldwide.

Find more information on our website: https://gijn.org