Workflow Tasks simplifies task management and helps boost team efficiency

Cognito Forms, a leading platform for online form building, has unveiled Workflow Tasks, a new feature designed to automate and streamline task management directly within the platform. This innovation aims to significantly reduce the time spent on repetitive form-filling tasks, converting what typically takes four hours into just four minutes, thus enhancing team efficiency and productivity.

1. Overview of Workflow Tasks:

   • Centralized Task Management: Users can view and manage assigned tasks in one central location, with completed tasks automatically disappearing from the list.
   • Automatic Task Assignment: When a form is submitted, tasks are automatically assigned to specific individuals or roles, simplifying coordination and reducing manual intervention.

2. Benefits of Workflow Tasks:

   • Time Savings: Automates repetitive tasks, allowing teams to focus on strategic and creative responsibilities.
   • Improved Efficiency: Reduces the need for project managers or third-party integrations by consolidating task management within the Cognito Forms platform.
   • Enhanced Coordination: Ensures that tasks are assigned to the appropriate team members or roles at the right time, based on pre-set rules and conditions.

3. Applications for HR Departments:

   • Onboarding Process: Facilitates the completion of online onboarding forms and automates the assignment of tasks such as equipment assignments, approvals, and payroll setup.
   • Error Reduction: Minimizes errors and reduces the mental load on employees by automating task assignments and notifications.

4. Statements from Leadership:

   • Jamie Thomas, Co-founder and CEO of Cognito Forms: Emphasized the importance of automation in improving both customer experience and employee well-being, highlighting how Workflow Tasks simplifies task management without the need for additional tools or integrations.

Cognito Forms' Workflow Tasks feature offers a powerful solution for automating task management associated with online forms. By streamlining task assignments and reducing manual work, it provides significant time savings and efficiency improvements, particularly valuable for HR departments and other teams managing complex processes.

Coordinated Bot Mega-Attack and Escalating Deepfake Threats Severely Impact APAC Region

AU10TIX, a leading global technology firm specializing in identity verification and management, has released its Q2 2024 Global Identity Fraud Report. The report, based on millions of transactions processed globally from April to June 2024, reveals troubling trends in organized identity fraud, including a dramatic rise in automated bot attacks and deepfake incidents.

1. Key Findings of Q2 2024 Report:

   • Surge in Bot Attacks: Social media platforms have seen the highest number of automated bot attacks ever recorded by AU10TIX. The proportion of attacks targeting social media rose from 3% in Q1 to 16% in Q2.
   • APAC Region Vulnerabilities: The APAC region experienced a significant mega-attack in the payments sector, with over 5,000 fraudulent onboarding attempts. Additionally, the region has seen a 1,530% increase in deepfake incidents and a 24% rise in fraud rates from 2022 to 2023.

2. Impact of Bots and Deepfakes:

   • Impersonation Bots: According to Imperva's 2024 Bad Bot Report, impersonation bots account for 32% of internet traffic. These bots use deepfake technology to create convincing fake profiles for spreading disinformation, malware, and manipulating online interactions.
   • Financial Fraud: The fraudulent accounts created by these bots often facilitate money laundering and other sophisticated financial crimes.

3. Statements from Leadership:

   • Dan Yerushalmi, CEO of AU10TIX: Highlighted the efficiency and danger of bots and deepfake technology in automating complex scams, making them difficult to detect with traditional methods. AU10TIX's Serial Fraud Monitor is noted as a key solution for detecting widespread bot-driven fraud.

4. Positive Developments:

   • Disruption of Criminal Networks: AU10TIX analysts observed a 17% decline in attacks targeting the payments sector in Q2, attributed to INTERPOL'S HAECHI IV and First Light operations, which targeted online financial crime and social engineering fraud.

5. Actionable Insights for Organizations:

   • Self-Regulation of Social Media: Platforms should require users to authenticate their identity to maintain credibility and prevent fraud.
   • Advanced Fraud Detection: Leveraging deepfake detection and consortium validation technologies can combat social media impersonation.
   • Multi-layered Authentication: Implementing KYC/KYB solutions, biometric verification, and advanced fraud detection tools can enhance defenses against identity fraud.

The AU10TIX Q2 2024 Global Identity Fraud Report underscores the growing threat of automated bot attacks and deepfakes, particularly in the APAC region. Organizations are encouraged to adopt advanced fraud detection technologies and multi-layered authentication measures to protect against these evolving threats.

MGID+ is a 360° data-driven suite designed in collaboration with publishers to solve complex challenges of open web monetization

Global advertising platform MGID has unveiled MGID+, an integrated solution tailored for premium publishers navigating the evolving landscape of the open web. MGID+ combines tools for monetization, audience acquisition, and engagement into a single suite, enhanced by real-time data on advertising, website, and content performance.

1. Challenges Addressed by MGID+:

   • Revenue Sustainability: Publishers often struggle to maintain consistent ad revenue amidst increasing competition and evolving regulations. MGID+ offers the ‘Campaign Studio’ tool, enabling publishers to launch direct native campaigns without intermediaries, and ‘Contextual Intelligence’ for effective cookieless targeting while preserving data exclusivity.
   • Audience Acquisition: The platform helps publishers discover and attract new, engaged readers through content syndication and external audience exchange. It includes a content promotion platform and provides Core Web Vital and SEO recommendations to enhance webpage performance and drive traffic.
   • Audience Engagement: MGID+ boosts reader retention with personalized content recommendations and push notifications through the ‘Audience Hub’. The ‘Analytics Hub’ provides a comprehensive view of backend operations, allowing publishers to track and analyze content performance for informed decision-making.

2. Features of MGID+:

   • Sustaining Revenue:
     • Campaign Studio: Direct native campaign management for greater control and revenue retention.
     • Contextual Intelligence: Cookieless targeting with full data control.
   • Acquiring Audiences:
     • Content Syndication & Promotion: Expand reach and minimize reliance on social platforms.
     • Technical Optimization: Core Web Vital and SEO enhancements.
   • Engaging Readers:
     • Personalized Recommendations: Keep audiences engaged with tailored content.
     • Push Notifications: Drive return visits with personalized alerts.
     • Analytics Hub: Monitor and analyze content performance for strategic insights.

3. Statements from Leadership:

   • Sergii Denysenko, CEO of MGID: Expressed pride in developing MGID+ through collaboration with publishers, highlighting its effectiveness in addressing core challenges and benefiting advertisers with high-quality audience access and advanced brand safety.

MGID+ represents a significant advancement for publishers seeking to enhance revenue, acquire new audiences, and engage readers effectively. By offering a comprehensive suite of tools and real-time data insights, MGID+ is set to address key publishing challenges and deliver value to publishers, advertisers, and readers alike.

VideoAmp, a leading tech-first media measurement company, has announced the appointment of Jessica Jensen as Senior Director of Product Methodology and Analytics. This move underscores VideoAmp's commitment to enhancing its cross-platform media measurement standards and compliance.

1. Role and Responsibilities:

   • Jessica Jensen's Background: Jensen joins VideoAmp from Ernst & Young (EY), where she spent 16 years in Consulting Services. At VideoAmp, she will focus on optimizing audit readiness, implementing strategic policies for transparency, and amplifying the company’s industry exposure.
   • Reporting Structure: Jensen will report directly to Adria Jewell, SVP of Product Methodology at VideoAmp.

2. Previous Experience:

   • At Ernst & Young: Jensen led independent audits for MRC and expanded EY’s media measurement assurance team. Her expertise in industry standards and relationships with accreditation bodies will support VideoAmp’s growth and enhance its measurement capabilities.

3. Statements from Leadership:

   • Jessica Jensen: “I’m excited to join the innovative team at VideoAmp and contribute to building on their strong foundation to deliver exceptional results for clients.”
   • Josh Hudgins, Chief Product Officer at VideoAmp: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jessica as we enhance our measurement standards and compliance efforts. Her expertise will accelerate our progress towards MRC accreditation.”

4. Company Milestones:

   • Financial Goals: VideoAmp is on track to guarantee over $1 billion in currency for 2024.
   • Growth Metrics: The company has achieved 641% YoY growth, 98% coverage of the TV publisher ecosystem, and partnerships with 11 agency groups and over 1,000 advertisers.

Jessica Jensen’s appointment marks a significant step for VideoAmp as it continues to advance its media measurement standards and compliance efforts. With a focus on optimizing transparency and audit readiness, Jensen’s expertise will drive the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality results for its clients.

Seasoned ad tech leader will focus on strategic growth opportunities in programmatic, unique partnerships, and international expansion.

Nativo, a platform that empowers brands to engage and influence their audiences through content, has announced the appointment of Michael Lehman as its new President. This strategic leadership addition aims to drive Nativo's growth in key areas such as programmatic direct deals, open exchange revenue, and international expansion.

• Michael Lehman's Expertise:

  • Lehman brings extensive experience in the ad tech industry, particularly in supply, demand-side platforms (DSPs), and exchange dynamics.
  • His expertise is expected to significantly contribute to Nativo's next growth phase by enhancing the company's capabilities in the rapidly evolving ad tech landscape.

• Lehman's Track Record at TripleLift:

  • Lehman played a crucial role at TripleLift, where he helped scale the company’s revenue significantly from its early Series A funding stage to its acquisition by Vista Equity Partners for $1.4 billion in 2021.
  • He managed a global team of over 100 members, demonstrating strong leadership and deep knowledge in revenue generation and supply chain management within ad tech.

• Previous Roles:

  • Before TripleLift, Lehman spent over four years at The Rubicon Project in senior publisher development roles, further solidifying his expertise in the ad tech sector.

• Nativo’s Market Position:

  • Nativo stands out in the ad tech space by using patented technology to automate the distribution of content as non-interruptive ad units, a unique positioning that Lehman believes is increasingly critical.
  • Lehman’s vision for Nativo includes expanding its mid-funnel ad tech capabilities and exploring new innovations in commerce media and other adjacent areas.

• Cultural Fit and Team Dynamics:

  • Lehman expressed admiration for Nativo’s culture and team, highlighting the synergy between his professional goals and the company’s values.
    
    

Michael Lehman's appointment as President is a strategic move by Nativo to leverage his vast experience and leadership in ad tech. His background in scaling revenue and fostering innovation positions him well to drive Nativo's growth in new and existing markets. Lehman’s alignment with Nativo's culture and his commitment to building future-focused ad tech solutions signal a promising new chapter for the company.

Industry veteran Johannes Stehr to spearhead European growth and enhance local support for global clients

Diversified, a leading global technology solutions provider, has appointed Johannes Stehr as Vice President of Enterprise EMEA. This strategic hire reflects Diversified's dedication to enhancing its enterprise offerings and meeting the rising demand for consistent global technology standards paired with strong local support.

• Role and Responsibilities:

  • In his new role, Stehr will spearhead Diversified’s expansion of Workplace and Media operational capabilities across Europe, with an initial emphasis on Germany.
  • His appointment is pivotal to Diversified's global strategy, focusing on harmonising technology deployment and support for multinational enterprises.

• Strategic Importance:

  • Stehr's leadership aims to bridge the gap between global technology standardisation and localised expertise, ensuring that enterprises receive uniform technology experiences while benefiting from regional insights and support.
  • The role was specifically created to bolster Diversified’s capacity to serve enterprise clients with a balanced approach that marries global consistency with localised service.

• Johannes Stehr’s Background:

  • Stehr brings over 23 years of industry experience, having previously served as Managing Director for Germany at AVI-SPL Deutschland GmbH.
  • At AVI-SPL, he successfully established and expanded the company's German operations, providing services across most of the European Union.
  • His previous tenure at Crestron further equipped him with a robust local network, in-depth cultural knowledge, and a thorough understanding of regional supply chains.

• Strategic Vision and Impact:

  • Stehr’s strategic vision includes enhancing Diversified's local capabilities, improving cultural understanding, and providing language support across Europe.
  • He aims to deliver more agile and proactive services to both global and local enterprise clients, reinforcing Diversified's reputation as a trusted advisor in technology standardisation and digital transformation.
  • His leadership will also drive sustainable business practices through optimised regional operations.

• Market Relevance:

  • Stehr’s appointment aligns with the growing complexity of hybrid work environments and digital-first operations, where Diversified’s expanded European presence will play a crucial role.
  • By leveraging Stehr’s expertise, Diversified aims to offer a powerful combination of global performance and local presence, enhancing its ability to deliver consistent, high-quality technology solutions across diverse European markets.
    
    

Johannes Stehr's appointment as Vice President of Enterprise EMEA is a strategic move for Diversified, aligning with its mission to provide global technology solutions with local expertise. With Stehr's extensive experience and deep regional insights, Diversified is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of multinational enterprises, driving growth and delivering value through consistent and culturally aware technology solutions.

IBM Granite puts generative AI to work for fantasy football users, offering more detailed reasoning around players' assigned waiver grades and trade grades

IBM and ESPN have unveiled enhancements to the ESPN Fantasy app, utilizing IBM's AI and data platform, watsonx, powered by generative AI technologies. These updates aim to provide a more personalized and engaging experience for over 12 million fantasy football users. New research commissioned by IBM and conducted by Morning Consult reveals that fantasy football enthusiasts are increasingly adopting AI to improve their rosters and overall experience.

• New Features Powered by IBM watsonx:

  • The app now includes "Top Contributing Factors" within the Waiver Grade and Trade Grade features, providing detailed reasoning behind a player's assigned grades.
  • These insights are generated by IBM’s Granite large language model, tailored to each team and powered by AI models built with IBM watsonx. The models analyze vast amounts of data, including player performance, expert articles, and the specific needs of each fantasy team owner.

• Benefits for Fantasy Football Users:

  • Personalized player grades based on the specific needs of each team.
  • Transparent explanations of AI-generated grades, helping users understand the reasoning behind player evaluations.
  • Predictions highlighting each player's potential upsides and downsides, enabling more strategic decisions.

• Enhanced Suite of Tools:

  • These updates complement other IBM watsonx-powered tools like Trade Analyzer and Player Insights, which convert large volumes of football data into actionable insights, helping ESPN Fantasy Football users make informed lineup decisions.

• Survey Insights on AI Adoption in Fantasy Football:

  • A survey by IBM and Morning Consult, involving 500 fantasy football users in the U.S., shows a high adoption rate of AI tools:
    • Nearly 90% of users regularly interact with at least one AI-related tool.
    • 82% utilize AI-generated trade and waiver suggestions to enhance their fantasy lineups.
    • Among users not currently using AI tools, 92% expressed that they would find AI beneficial in their fantasy football activities.

• IBM's Broader AI Vision:

  • According to Noah Syken, VP of Sports and Entertainment Partnerships at IBM, the enhancements bring watsonx-powered insights directly to fantasy football users, offering personalized, data-driven insights that meet their expectations.
  • The generative AI technologies employed in the ESPN Fantasy app are also used across various business sectors, turning complex data into actionable insights and modernizing workflows.

• Ongoing Collaboration Between IBM and ESPN:

  • The partnership between IBM and ESPN Fantasy Football is now in its eighth year, continually leveraging watsonx technologies to transform football data into valuable insights for fantasy team owners.
  • IBM’s Granite large language models and watsonx Code Assistant, which provides AI-generated coding recommendations, are among the advanced technologies used to enhance the app’s capabilities.
    
    

The latest enhancements to the ESPN Fantasy app, powered by IBM’s watsonx platform, mark a significant step forward in integrating AI into fantasy sports. By offering personalized player grades, transparent insights, and predictive analytics, the collaboration between IBM and ESPN continues to revolutionize the fantasy football experience. As more users embrace AI tools, these innovations underscore the potential of generative AI technologies to transform digital experiences in sports and beyond.

LOKKER, a provider of online data privacy and compliance solutions for enterprises, has launched a new consent management solution within its Privacy Edge Platform. This new feature builds on LOKKER’s existing Consent Verification tool, which helps businesses verify the configuration of their current consent management platforms (CMPs). The enhanced solution aims to address common issues with consent managers and ensure compliance with state and federal privacy laws that mandate consumer rights regarding data sharing.

• Challenges with Existing Consent Managers:

  • Many current consent management platforms are not fully effective, often sharing consumer data before consent is given. According to LOKKER's research, over 90% of websites with consent banners share data prior to user consent.
  • Even when users opt out of data sharing, many consent tools fail to block data transmission entirely, exposing companies and their customers to privacy risks.
  • Consent managers typically require significant manual setup, averaging around 90 days, and need constant updates to keep pace with new technologies like tracking tags and pixels.
  • Issues arise when new tags are added without notifying the legal team, or when tags are miscategorized, such as targeting tags incorrectly marked as "strictly necessary."

• LOKKER’s Consent Management Solution:

  • The new solution can function independently or alongside a company’s existing CMP, proactively detecting and blocking pixels, tags, and trackers in a "Reject All" state.
  • It ensures that website consent banners are always up-to-date and effectively block tracking methods that many other consent managers overlook, such as unauthorized cookies and third-party data collection.

• Key Features of LOKKER’s Solution:

  • The Privacy Edge platform scans daily and provides real-time blocking of unauthorized tracking technologies, including pixels and fingerprinters, to keep consent banners compliant.
  • It automates workflows between marketing, legal, and engineering teams, reducing the manual effort needed to maintain consent management.
  • The solution reads and blocks third-party data collection based on Global Privacy Control (GPC) and Do Not Track (DNT) signals.
  • It provides detailed analytics and reporting, including session-level blocking statistics based on admin settings or user rejection via the consent banner.
  • The platform also identifies unique cases, such as pixels causing third-party cookies to drop unexpectedly for certain users.

• Industry Relevance and Compliance:

  • LOKKER’s solution addresses the critical need for more robust consent management in light of evolving data privacy laws, ensuring that organizations maintain compliance and protect user data from unauthorized collection.
  • By automating detection and blocking, the platform reduces the legal and operational risks associated with non-compliance and enhances the transparency of data practices.
    
    

LOKKER's new consent management solution within its Privacy Edge™ Platform offers enterprises a comprehensive tool to manage consent and data privacy more effectively. By automating the detection and blocking of unauthorized tracking technologies, the solution addresses the shortcomings of traditional consent managers, ensuring compliance with privacy laws and enhancing the overall protection of user data. LOKKER's commitment to real-time data protection provides companies with a last line of defense against unauthorized data sharing, reflecting a proactive approach to online privacy.