Mastodon is a decentralized social media platform where users can create accounts on various independently operated servers called “instances.” Similar to X/Twitter, it allows users to post short messages, follow others, and engage in conversations. Each instance sets its own rules and standards, accommodating diverse communities with different interests and preferences. Mastodon prioritizes user privacy and offers an alternative to centralized social networks by giving users more control over their data and interactions.
Researchers can utilize Mastodon for OSINT by monitoring public posts and hashtags to gather insights on various topics and communities. However, conducting thorough research without an account limits access to certain posts and interactions, potentially restricting the depth of information available.
We recommend viewing the following view that gives a brief introduction to the platform and what a decentralized platform entails: