Social media has changed the game for cops, and knowing how to use it effectively is key to staying ahead of criminals. This course gives officers the tools to navigate the digital world, gather intelligence, and build stronger cases. Led by expert instructor Nick Jerman, Social Media and Open-Source Investigations helps you master online investigations while keeping yourself—and your family—safe.

You’ll learn how to track down users across multiple platforms, link accounts, analyze images for hidden clues, and preserve critical data for court. The course also covers the essential tools, apps, and legal steps you need to make sure everything you gather stands up in court.

What You’ll Learn

  • Navigating Social Media
    Learn how to find and exploit information on major—and lesser-known—platforms.

  • Investigative Techniques
    Discover ways to link usernames, phone numbers, and IDs across networks to build leads.

  • Image and Geolocation Analysis
    Pull valuable clues from photos, including location data and context.

  • Legal Compliance
    Learn how to preserve evidence and write subpoenas and search warrants that hold up in court.

  • Essential Tools
    Get free resources and recommended software to help you dig deeper.

  • OSINT Skills
    Stay ahead of criminals by mastering Open-Source Intelligence search techniques.

By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to add social media and digital investigations to your toolbox—helping you build solid cases, keep yourself safe, and serve your community more effectively.


Certificate: 4 Hour

Credit: In-service credit available in many states


                           
                           

Instructor

Open Source Investigations Instructor

Nick Jerman

Introducing Nick Jerman, a seasoned law enforcement veteran boasting an illustrious career spanning over two decades, during which he contributed significantly to a dynamic 1,100-officer police department in a prominent metropolitan center in the United States. Throughout his distinguished tenure, Nick adeptly applied his expertise across various domains, excelling in both Patrol and a Vice Unit with finesse.

.

.

ADDED BONUS

FREE IN-PERSON TICKET

Purchasing this course will entitle you to a free ticket for the in-person class Social Media & Open Source Investigations

Course curriculum

  1. 1

    • Welcome to Blue to Gold University

    • Course Introduction

    • Meet your Instructor

    • Questions and Technical Support
  2. 2

    • Introduction

    • Facebook

    • X/Twitter, Instagram and Threads

    • Sanpchat, Tiktok and YouTube

    • OSINT and Working with Images
  3. 3

    • Final Test

Course Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

5 star rating

Great Class

Sigurd Sivertson

I believe every officer in the US should take this course. Officers need to know this stuff so we can stop bad case law from being made.

I believe every officer in the US should take this course. Officers need to know this stuff so we can stop bad case law from being made.

Read Less
5 star rating

Amazing!!

Steven Sentz

Highly useful information that can be used on every call for service

Highly useful information that can be used on every call for service

Read Less
4 star rating

This class was great

Humberto Martinez

i learned a lot. Its about the minor details, especially when it comes to our line of work

i learned a lot. Its about the minor details, especially when it comes to our line of work

Read Less
5 star rating

Solid

Troy Wylie

Helpful information, very well presented, in manageable portions.

Helpful information, very well presented, in manageable portions.

Read Less

  • Our courses are designed to be comprehensive, engaging, and well-structured delivered by a knowledgeable and passionate instructor.

  • Up-to-date, practical content that reflects industry trends and is presented in an easy-to-understand manner.

  • Collaborative opportunities, feedback, and assessment to facilitate student learning and progress tracking.

  • Our courses provide practical skills and knowledge that can be applied in real-life situations, with relevant examples, case studies, and exercises.

  • You will receive a certificate of completion.