S04 E01 - OSINT in the Maritime Domain with Rae Baker

In this episode of the ShadowDragon Podcast, host Nico Dekens and
co-host David Cook interview Rae Baker, a senior OSINT analyst and
maritime specialist. They explore how open-source intelligence
(OSINT) applies to the maritime domain, highlighting how tools like
AIS (Automatic Identification System) data, satellite imagery, and
social media can help track vessels and uncover suspicious
activities such as sanctions evasion or illegal cargo transfers.
Rae explains the importance of historical context—knowing typical
vessel routes and behaviors—to spot anomalies that may indicate
illicit or sanctioned cargo, and also touches on how adversaries
employ “shadow fleets,” spoof AIS signals, and hide ownership
behind shell companies. The conversation concludes with advice for
analysts, compliance teams, and insurers on mitigating risks,
conducting thorough due diligence, and leveraging AI as a
complement (not a substitute) to human expertise. Special Guest:
Rae Baker.