The FBI's Finance and Facilities Division issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights on Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) tools capable of collecting Publicly Available Information (PAI) and Commercially Available Information (CAI) from social media and the internet. This RFI aims to identify qualified vendors who can support the FBI's investigative needs while ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. The FBI is specifically interested in two categories of vendors: major OSINT systems with broad capabilities and specialized systems targeting niche data sources. Key capabilities sought include user-friendly interfaces, relevant and accurate search results, effective training support, data export functionality, and robust user account management. Additional desired features include advanced analytics, geospatial search abilities, real-time alerts, and collaborative tools. Vendors must be U.S.-based companies providing OSINT tools directly, and solutions must align with legal processes. Responses to the RFI are voluntary and should focus on the capabilities outlined. The important deadline for questions and submissions is January 27, 2025, emphasizing the FBI’s commitment to enhancing its intelligence capabilities to tackle emerging threats effectively while safeguarding civil liberties.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to explore vendor-supported Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) tools for collecting Publicly Available Information (PAI) and Commercially Available Information (CAI) from the internet and social media. This RFI aims to identify suitable vendors and gather essential data to develop an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for OSINT tools. The FBI requires capabilities for extensive internet searches, user-friendly interfaces, relevant search results, and robust data handling features suitable for law enforcement. The document distinguishes between major vendors with broad capabilities and specialized vendors with niche offerings, emphasizing that only U.S.-based companies without reseller status will be considered. Vendors are encouraged to provide innovative solutions, technical support, and compliance with privacy regulations. The RFI outlines mandatory requirements, additional sought features, and instructions for submission to facilitate effective procurement planning while emphasizing that the call is for informational purposes only, with no binding contract commitment from the government. Responses will inform future solicitations and possible acquisition strategies for OSINT tools vital to national security efforts.

The FBI's Request for Information (RFI) seeks insights into open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools to enhance investigative capabilities. Key inquiries involve the eligibility of foreign subsidiary companies to respond, the required data sources, and specific functionalities of the tools, such as real-time alerting and reporting formats. The FBI stresses the need for tools interoperable across multiple platforms, including social media, and emphasizes user collaboration within the tool for sharing analytical results. Vendor responses should address requirements for handling sensitive user metadata and meeting established security standards, particularly favoring FEDRAMP guidelines for cloud solutions. The RFI seeks to explore current market capabilities, understanding incumbent solutions, while inquiring about flexibility in contract types and potential user access through an IDIQ framework. Overall, the FBI aims to establish a robust OSINT marketplace that grants enhanced access to public and confidential databases, supporting its mission under various legal authorities. This initiative underscores the FBI’s commitment to leveraging technological advancements to bolster national security and investigative efficiency.