OSINT Archives

Social Media Search vs. Social Media Investigation: What’s the Difference?

In the world of digital intelligence, the terms social media search and social media investigation are often used interchangeably. But make no mistake—they are not the same. Understanding the difference is crucial if you’re looking to uncover actionable information for a legal case, insurance claim, background check, or workplace inquiry.

At eChatter, we offer both services, and our clients often ask: “What’s the difference?” This blog breaks down the key distinctions between a basic search and a full investigation so you can choose the right approach for your needs.

What is a Social Media Search?

A social media search is typically the initial step in locating a person’s online presence. It’s a surface-level scan of publicly available information across social media platforms such as:

Facebook
Instagram
Twitter/X
TikTok
LinkedIn
Snapchat (when content is public)

This search aims to identify whether a subject has an online presence, what platforms they use, and some general details like profile names, photos, and bio information. It may also include:

Profile creation dates
Recent posts or visible activity
Basic connections or followers

Use Case: A social media search is ideal when you’re trying to confirm identity or determine if deeper investigation is warranted.

What is a Social Media Investigation?

A social media investigation goes far beyond the basics. It is a comprehensive, analytical deep dive into a subject’s digital activity, using both manual review and AI-powered tools to uncover patterns, behaviors, and inconsistencies. These investigations can include:

In-depth analysis of posts, photos, and comments
Geolocation data pulled from images and check-ins
Associations with other individuals or groups
Timeline building for specific dates or events (e.g., after an injury)
AI-enhanced facial recognition and image matching
Archived or deleted content (when available through legal means)
Behavioral or sentiment analysis

Use Case: A social media investigation is used in legal claims, fraud detection, workplace misconduct, background screening, and civil or criminal litigation. The output often includes a documented report with screenshots, metadata, and analysis suitable for courtroom or internal use.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Social Media Search	Social Media Investigation
Purpose	Locate basic profiles and content	Uncover detailed, case-relevant information
Depth	Surface-level scan	Comprehensive review and analysis
Tools Used	Manual searches, open web	Advanced AI, geolocation, facial recognition
Output	List of profiles, general info	Detailed report with screenshots, timelines, associations
Recommended For	Preliminary review or ID confirmation	Legal evidence, fraud investigations, litigation

Which One Do You Need?

If you’re simply looking to find out whether someone has a digital footprint, a social media search may be enough. But if you’re trying to gather evidence, verify claims, or identify behavioral patterns, a full social media investigation is the way to go.

At eChatter, we specialize in both services. Our AI-powered tools and trained analysts ensure that no relevant detail is missed—especially in high-stakes cases.

Need help choosing the right level of investigation?

Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll help you determine whether a search or full investigation best suits your needs.

eChatter is a digital intelligence company providing OSINT and social media analysis to law firms, insurers, investigators, and businesses across the U.S.

Gang Activity and Group Affiliations Identified Through Social Media Posts

In today’s digital age, social media platforms are not just tools for connection—they’re also treasure troves of information for investigators. One emerging area of intelligence gathering is the identification of gang activity and group affiliations through social media posts. From images and hashtags to emojis and clothing, online behaviors can paint a very telling picture.

The Digital Footprint of Gang Activity

Gang members and affiliated individuals often turn to platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat to share aspects of their lives. Whether consciously or not, they frequently reveal:

Symbols and hand signs
Color-coded clothing or bandanas
Group photos in known gang territory
References to specific streets, “sets,” or rivals
Hashtags tied to local or national gangs
Emojis that replace words (e.g., 🅱️ for Blood, 🐍 for “snake” or betrayal)

These clues, when collected and cross-referenced, can offer deep insights into group affiliations and potential criminal networks.

🧠 Case Studies and News Highlights

Chicago PD’s Social Media Division has long been utilizing public Facebook and Instagram posts to track gang rivalries and predict retaliation after shootings. In one case, an Instagram Live post helped them intervene before a potential violent retaliation.
A 2022 Department of Justice investigation in California used TikTok videos to tie suspects to a series of robberies. Members of a gang had been flaunting stolen items and taunting rival groups, giving investigators time-stamped evidence and location markers.
Academic research, such as the 2017 study “Digital Gangsters: Gangs and Social Media Use in Chicago” (Papachristos et al.), emphasizes how online conflict—called “Internet banging”—often escalates to offline violence.

🔧 How Investigators Can Use This Data

For private investigators, insurance companies, and law enforcement, recognizing digital gang markers can:

Validate existing suspicions or criminal history
Link individuals to known groups or criminal networks
Discredit or verify alibis using geotagged content
Support background checks for sensitive cases (e.g., custody, employment)
Aid in threat assessment or workplace security reviews

⚠️ Key Markers to Watch

When analyzing a subject’s digital footprint, consider the following as potential indicators of gang ties:

Type	Example
🧢 Clothing	Color patterns, logo flips, bandanas
🤳 Poses	Flashing hand signs, gang-specific symbols
🏷️ Hashtags	#FreeTheHomie, #GDK, #BDK, #TrapLife
🧩 Emojis	🅱️, 🐍, 💯, 🔫
📍 Locations	Frequent check-ins at known gang areas or streets
🎶 Music	Lyrics in videos referencing violence or affiliations

🛠️ Our Role in Helping You Connect the Dots

At eChatter, we specialize in analyzing digital behavior through a combination of OSINT, SOCMINT, and proprietary tools. Our team is trained to identify not just what’s visible—but what’s implied, coded, or intentionally hidden.

Through our reports, clients gain a clear view of affiliations, patterns, and risk factors. Whether you’re investigating a person of interest, building a case, or conducting due diligence, we deliver insights that matter.

Why Slang Matters in Social Media Investigations

Social Media users, especially younger generations, often use slang to communicate. You may have heard a phrase or two from a Gen Zer that made you pause and wonder what they meant by that! One that I hear a lot in my personal life is “spill the tea” ~ which means “tell me the gossip.” Innocent enough, but when conducting a social media deep dive on a person of interest, it is critical to educate yourself. Without knowledge of these terms, investigators might miss crucial details.

Identifying Drug Activity

Recently the publication, WIRED covered the subject of drug sales and drug use in social media. More and more dealers and consumers are using a combination of emoji’s and slang as a way to communicate. This has morphed into getting the delivery of your drugs via the USPS, rather than meeting the dealer on a street corner or in the dark web. Some dealers have even sponsored social media posts to gain more traffic. “Dealers ran hundreds of paid advertisements on Meta platforms in 2024 to sell illegal opioids and what appeared to be cocaine and ecstasy pills, according to a report this year by the Tech Transparency Project, and federal prosecutors are investigating Meta over the issue”.

Staying educated is one way to stay ahead of this. Here are some examples of the new terms used in social media along with their meanings:

Common Slang Terms Used by Drug Dealers:

Plug: Refers to a supplier or someone who can provide drugs.
Connect: Another term for a supplier or source for drugs.
Re-up: The act of replenishing a drug supply.
Slab: A large quantity of drugs, often sold in bulk.
Cut: Additives used to dilute or enhance drugs.
Cook-up: The process of preparing drugs, particularly in creating unique combinations.

*Resource: Higher Language

Gen Z Slang

Generation Z (Gen Z) generally includes individuals born between 1997 and 2012, according to the Pew Research Center. However, some sources may slightly adjust these dates, with ranges often extending from 1995 to 2010 or similar variations.
As of 2025, Gen Zers are approximately 13 to 28 years old.

Generation Z has developed a vibrant wordlist of slang terms that are widely used across social media platforms. Here are some of the most popular expressions:

Rizz: Derived from “charisma,” this term refers to someone’s ability to attract or charm others, especially in a romantic context.
Delulu: A playful abbreviation of “delusional,” used to describe someone who has unrealistic fantasies, particularly about relationships or personal aspirations.
The ick: A sudden feeling of discomfort or repulsion towards a person, often triggered by a specific behavior or trait.
Bussin’: Used to describe something exceptionally good or delicious, commonly in reference to food.
Mid: A term signifying that something is mediocre or average in quality.
Simp: Describes someone who is overly attentive or submissive to another person, often in a romantic context, without reciprocation.
No cap: A phrase used to assert that someone is telling the truth or being genuine.
Cheugy: Refers to something that is outdated or no longer trendy.

Glow up: Describes a significant transformation, often in appearance or style, indicating improvement.
Stan: A blend of ‘stalker’ and ‘fan,’ it denotes someone who is an enthusiastic and devoted admirer of a celebrity or public figure.
Ghosting: The act of suddenly cutting off all communication with someone without explanation, typically in a dating context.
Salty: Feeling upset or bitter, often in response to a perceived slight or disappointment.
Bet: A term used to express agreement or affirmation, similar to saying “okay” or “sure.”
Fam: Short for “family,” but often used to refer to close friends or a trusted group.
Sheesh: An exclamation used to express disbelief, admiration, or exasperation.
Resource: Parade

Be Real: The Authentic Photo-Sharing App Changing Social Media

As of 2024, BeReal has over 100 million downloads globally, with about 25 million daily active users. The app initially gained popularity in France, where it was launched in 2019, but it has since expanded its user base, with the United States leading in downloads. BeReal’s unique approach of encouraging users to post unfiltered, real-time content has resonated with many, particularly younger audiences, with 98% of users being under 45 years old.

BeReal is a social media app that aims to provide a more authentic and less curated experience compared to other platforms. It was launched in 2020 by French developers Alexis Barreyat and Kévin Perreau. The app encourages users to post unfiltered, real-time photos to share a more genuine snapshot of their daily lives.

Heres how it works

Daily Notification: Every day at a random time, all users receive a notification to take a photo within a two-minute window.
Dual Camera Feature: The app uses both the front and back cameras simultaneously, capturing what you are doing and your reaction in real-time.
No Edits or Filters: Users are encouraged to post photos without editing or applying filters, promoting authenticity.
Limited Interaction: There are no likes, and interactions are minimal, which shifts the focus away from seeking approval or validation from others.

BeReal has grown popular, especially among younger audiences, because it contrasts with the highly polished content often seen on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook

Be Real Search Options

BeReal doesn’t have a traditional search function like other social media platforms where you can easily find someone by their name or username. Instead, finding someone’s BeReal account requires a few specific methods:

Friend Requests via Phone Contacts: BeReal allows you to sync your phone contacts, and it will suggest people you know based on those contacts. You can add friends directly if they are already using the app.
Username or Profile Sharing: You can manually share your BeReal username or ask for someone’s username, then add them by searching for their profile in the “Add Friends” section of the app.
QR Code: Users can share a QR code that others can scan to find their profile.

BeReal focuses on close, personal connections, which is why they don’t offer broader search features or public profiles. This design aligns with their goal of fostering a more authentic, private social media experience.

As of September 2024, BeReal has been in the news for a few reasons. The app has faced scrutiny over privacy concerns and data security issues, with some critics arguing that its approach to capturing authentic moments may unintentionally compromise user privacy. Additionally, BeReal has been exploring new features and updates to maintain user engagement, such as enhanced photo editing tools and expanded social interactions. The app’s efforts to stay relevant in the competitive social media landscape are also being closely watched.

E-Chatter stays on top of new social media applications and how they are used for the purpose of sharing our expertise with our clients. BeReal is an application we include in our search efforts on your behalf. Visit our website to learn more about our company and how we come alongside you during an investigation.

Sources:

GrabOn

The Social Shepherd

Online Optimism

The Growing Threat of Online Harassment

Online harassment has become a significant issue in today’s digital age, affecting people across various platforms and communities. According to Pew Research, 41% of Americans have personally experienced some form of online harassment. The study was published in 2021, although I am sure that number has increased over the last few years. Online harassment refers to abusive behavior conducted through digital platforms with the intent to harm, intimidate, or otherwise distress an individual or group. It encompasses a wide range of harmful activities facilitated by the internet, including social media, messaging apps, forums, and other online communication tools.

Types of Online Harassment

Online harassment can take many forms, each with its own methods and impact. Here are the main types of online harassment:

1. Cyberbullying

Definition: Repeated, deliberate harm inflicted through electronic means.
Examples: Sending threatening messages, spreading rumors online, posting hurtful comments or images.

2. Trolling

Definition: Intentionally provoking or upsetting people online to elicit emotional responses.
Examples: Posting inflammatory comments in forums, making offensive jokes, or derailing conversations with disruptive remarks.

3. Doxxing

Definition: Publishing private or identifying information about an individual without their consent.
Examples: Sharing someone’s home address, phone number, or personal photographs.

4. Swatting

Definition: Making false reports to emergency services to have them dispatched to someone’s address.
Examples: Reporting a fake hostage situation or bomb threat, leading to police SWAT teams being sent to the victim’s home.

5. Hate Speech

Definition: Online communication that demeans individuals or groups based on attributes like race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
Examples: Racist slurs, anti-Semitic comments, sexist remarks, and homophobic language.

6. Sexual Harassment

Definition: Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.
Examples: Sending unsolicited explicit images, making sexually suggestive comments, or stalking someone online.

7. Impersonation

Definition: Pretending to be someone else online to deceive others.
Examples: Creating fake profiles, sending messages under another person’s name, or posting as someone else to damage their reputation.

8. Cyberstalking

Definition: The use of the internet or other electronic means to stalk or harass an individual, group, or organization.
Examples: Repeatedly sending threatening emails, monitoring someone’s online activities, or using social media to track someone’s whereabouts.

9. Flaming

Definition: Posting hostile and insulting messages online, often in forums or social media platforms.
Examples: Aggressive and heated arguments, personal attacks, or profanity-laden tirades.

10. Catfishing

Definition: Creating a fake online persona to deceive others, typically for romantic or financial gain.
Examples: Pretending to be someone else on dating sites, forming online relationships under false pretenses, or soliciting money under a false identity.

11. Mobbing

Definition: Collective harassment by a group targeting an individual.
Examples: Coordinated attacks or campaigns against someone on social media, mass reporting of someone’s account to get them banned.

12. Outing

Definition: Publicly revealing someone’s private, sensitive, or embarrassing information without their consent.
Examples: Disclosing someone’s sexual orientation, sharing private messages or images, or revealing someone’s medical condition.

13. Online Shaming

Definition: Publicly humiliating someone online for their behavior or actions.
Examples: Viral posts calling out someone’s behavior, mass sharing of embarrassing videos, or targeted hashtag campaigns.

14. Gaslighting

Definition: Manipulating someone by psychological means into questioning their own sanity.
Examples: Denying previous online interactions, altering messages or posts to make someone doubt their memory, or spreading false information to discredit someone.

Understanding these various forms of online harassment is crucial for recognizing and combating them effectively.

The first place to start is to document everything should this happen to you or to a client of yours. Hire us to do a deep dive. Even the most skilled at this can mess up and it sometimes is found in the smallest little detail. We can help!