What
The training program consists of more than 30 training sessions, covering topics ranging from Disinformation 101 to Geolocation to Social media platform analysis and monitoring. ALL TRAININGS ARE OPT-IN. You can select and register for as many sessions as you want based on your interest and schedule.
The program includes: trainings (sessions aimed at teaching specific methodologies and research skills); conversations (informal sessions where you have the opportunity to ask DFRLab experts questions and share your own insights on a specific topic); and networking sessions. All sessions are designed to be interactive with hands-on opportunities to apply the skills in question and share your own experiences with fellow Sherlocks.
Who
The Digital Sherlocks Program is developed for members of key communities, including civil society staff, academics, students, and journalists. We will consider applications from individuals outside of these categories on an ad hoc basis. If your profile is not included in this list of communities and you are interested in receiving training, please see the section on “other capacity building activities.” Participants hail from across the globe, however, all sessions are delivered in English except for a few unique cases.
When
There is one Digital Sherlocks cohort per year. Applications open in June. Successful applicants will receive notification of their acceptance in July. The program runs from the beginning of September to mid-December with 2-3 sessions per week. Initial sessions focus on foundational concepts before building up to more complex topics and OSINT skills in later weeks. At the end of the program, participants will have the chance to request certificates of attendance that will be issued in January.
Where
ONLINE! If your application is accepted, you will receive further information on how to register for training sessions, access supplementary resources, and join private alumni social media groups.
Why
In a nutshell, to make the internet a better place! The Digital Sherlocks program aims at developing the next generation of global experts on OSINT, counter disinformation, FIMI and online harm. We want to build capacity and baseline skills that will empower participants to contribute to a safer online ecosystem and combat disinformation while elevating standards for OSINT research worldwide.
Digital Sherlock Resources
Already a Digital Sherlocks? Log in to access training schedules, register for sessions, and view available resources.
