Unsure workflow

Start here when you do not know what you have.

A guided workflow for identifying the input type and choosing the safest next path.

Passive and safe research workflow

When I use this

You have Website and want to check it through safe, legal, source-based research.

What you get

Recommended workflow and starting note.

What I would be careful with here

The order I follow

Work through the steps in order.

Name the input
Decide whether it is a website, image, text claim, technical indicator, or something else.
The input type is written.
Choose the purpose
Pick verification, research, reporting, or learning.
The purpose is clear.
Open the closest workflow
Use the decision tree or workflow list.
The workflow shows safe boundaries.
Write a short note
Record target, date, source, and confidence.
A starting record exists.

Sources I open

What I can and cannot say

When the input is unclear, the first task is classification, not tool use.

Sources

Access Now Digital Security Helpline
OPSEC and researcher safety
Digital security assistance resource for civil society and at-risk users.
Open source
AFP Fact Check
Verification and fact-checking
Agence France-Presse fact-checking site covering viral claims, images, videos, and misinformation.
Open source
Bellingcat Online Investigation Toolkit
Verification and fact-checking
Curated toolkit and guides for open-source investigation methods.
Open source
CISA Cybersecurity Best Practices
OPSEC and researcher safety
US government cybersecurity best-practice guidance.
Open source
CISA Report Cyber Issues
Reporting templates
Official CISA page for reporting cyber incidents, phishing, vulnerabilities, and malware.
Open source
EFF Surveillance Self-Defense
OPSEC and researcher safety
Digital security guidance from the Electronic Frontier Foundation.
Open source