V-HUMINT is shorthand for virtual or digital human intelligence: the collection of information through online platforms, social networks, messaging apps, and other digital relationships. It is a modern extension of HUMINT, where the key asset is still a person, but the contact, observation, and trust-building happen through screens rather than face-to-face meetings.
This matters in cyber security because online identities can be used to profile targets, build rapport, and guide them toward disclosure, credential theft, or unsafe actions. Attackers may use cyber personas, fake recruitment profiles, or carefully localized messages to make contact look routine and credible. Defenders should treat unusual outreach as a security event, especially for staff with privileged access or sensitive knowledge. Controls such as phishing-resistant MFA, strict account hygiene, verification of new contacts, and social-engineering training help reduce the risk.