#AI compliance certification

[synergeticsai]

AI Compliance Certification | Ensure Regulatory Adherence

Achieve AI Compliance Certification to demonstrate your commitment to ethical AI practices and regulatory standards. Our certification process ensures your AI systems meet industry guidelines for transparency and fairness. Start your certification journey today!

[jcmarchi]

David Maher, CTO of Intertrust – Interview Series

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/david-maher-cto-of-intertrust-interview-series/

David Maher, CTO of Intertrust – Interview Series

David Maher serves as Intertrust’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. With over 30 years of experience in trusted distributed systems, secure systems, and risk management Dave has led R&D efforts and held key leadership positions across the company’s subsidiaries. He was past president of Seacert Corporation, a Certificate Authority for digital media and IoT, and President of whiteCryption Corporation, a developer of systems for software self-defense. He also served as co-chairman of the Marlin Trust Management Organization (MTMO), which oversees the world’s only independent digital rights management ecosystem.

Intertrust developed innovations enabling distributed operating systems to secure and govern data and computations over open networks, resulting in a foundational patent on trusted distributed computing.

Originally rooted in research, Intertrust has evolved into a product-focused company offering trusted computing services that unify device and data operations, particularly for IoT and AI. Its markets include media distribution, device identity/authentication, digital energy management, analytics, and cloud storage security.

How can we close the AI trust gap and address the public’s growing concerns about AI safety and reliability?

Transparency is the most important quality that I believe will help address the growing concerns about AI. Transparency includes features that help both consumers and technologists understand what AI mechanisms are part of systems we interact with, what kind of pedigree they have: how an AI model is trained, what guardrails exist, what policies were applied in the model development, and what other assurances exist for a given mechanism’s safety and security.  With greater transparency, we will be able to address real risks and issues and not be distracted as much by irrational fears and conjectures.

What role does metadata authentication play in ensuring the trustworthiness of AI outputs?

Metadata authentication helps increase our confidence that assurances about an AI model or other mechanism are reliable. An AI model card is an example of a collection of metadata that can assist in evaluating the use of an AI mechanism (model, agent, etc.) for a specific purpose. We need to establish standards for clarity and completeness for model cards with standards for quantitative measurements and authenticated assertions about performance, bias, properties of training data, etc.

How can organizations mitigate the risk of AI bias and hallucinations in large language models (LLMs)?

Red teaming is a general approach to addressing these and other risks during the development and pre-release of models. Originally used to evaluate secure systems, the approach is now becoming standard for AI-based systems. It is a systems approach to risk management that can and should include the entire life cycle of a system from initial development to field deployment, covering the entire development supply chain. Especially critical is the classification and authentication of the training data used for a model.

What steps can companies take to create transparency in AI systems and reduce the risks associated with the “black box” problem?

Understand how the company is going to use the model and what kinds of liabilities it may have in deployment, whether for internal use or use by customers, either directly or indirectly. Then, understand what I call the pedigrees of the AI mechanisms to be deployed, including assertions on a model card, results of red-team trials, differential analysis on the company’s specific use, what has been formally evaluated, and what have been other people’s experience. Internal testing using a comprehensive test plan in a realistic environment is absolutely required. Best practices are evolving in this nascent area, so it is important to keep up.

How can AI systems be designed with ethical guidelines in mind, and what are the challenges in achieving this across different industries?

This is an area of research, and many claim that the notion of ethics and the current versions of AI are incongruous since ethics are conceptually based, and AI mechanisms are mostly data-driven. For example, simple rules that humans understand, like “don’t cheat,” are difficult to ensure. However, careful analysis of interactions and conflicts of goals in goal-based learning, exclusion of sketchy data and disinformation, and building in rules that require the use of output filters that enforce guardrails and test for violations of ethical principles such as advocating or sympathizing with the use of violence in output content should be considered. Similarly, rigorous testing for bias can help align a model more with ethical principles. Again, much of this can be conceptual, so care must be given to test the effects of a given approach since the AI mechanism will not “understand” instructions the way humans do.

What are the key risks and challenges that AI faces in the future, especially as it integrates more with IoT systems?

We want to use AI to automate systems that optimize critical infrastructure processes. For example, we know that we can optimize energy distribution and use using virtual power plants, which coordinate thousands of elements of energy production, storage, and use. This is only practical with massive automation and the use of AI to aid in minute decision-making. Systems will include agents with conflicting optimization objectives (say, for the benefit of the consumer vs the supplier). AI safety and security will be critical in the widescale deployment of such systems.

What type of infrastructure is needed to securely identify and authenticate entities in AI systems?

We will require a robust and efficient infrastructure whereby entities involved in evaluating all aspects of AI systems and their deployment can publish authoritative and authentic claims about AI systems, their pedigree, available training data, the provenance of sensor data, security affecting incidents and events, etc. That infrastructure will also need to make it efficient to verify claims and assertions by users of systems that include AI mechanisms and by elements within automated systems that make decisions based on outputs from AI models and optimizers.

Could you share with us some insights into what you are working on at Intertrust and how it factors into what we have discussed?

We research and design technology that can provide the kind of trust management infrastructure that is required in the previous question. We are specifically addressing issues of scale, latency, security and interoperability that arise in IoT systems that include AI components.

How does Intertrust’s PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) service secure IoT devices, and what makes it scalable for large-scale deployments?

Our PKI was designed specifically for trust management for systems that include the governance of devices and digital content. We have deployed billions of cryptographic keys and certificates that assure compliance. Our current research addresses the scale and assurances that massive industrial automation and critical worldwide infrastructure require, including best practices for “zero-trust” deployments and device and data authentication that can accommodate trillions of sensors and event generators.

What motivated you to join NIST’s AI initiatives, and how does your involvement contribute to developing trustworthy and safe AI standards?

NIST has tremendous experience and success in developing standards and best practices in secure systems. As a Principal Investigator for the US AISIC from Intertrust, I can advocate for important standards and best practices in developing trust management systems that include AI mechanisms. From past experience, I particularly appreciate the approach that NIST takes to promote creativity, progress, and industrial cooperation while helping to formulate and promulgate important technical standards that promote interoperability. These standards can spur the adoption of beneficial technologies while addressing the kinds of risks that society faces.

Thank you for the great interview, readers who wish to learn more should visit Intertrust.

[syoddeye]

What happens when the user has to leave? I mean it's only a testing phase, surely user will be pushed out, not sure ai!price would like that though..👀

surely user will be pushed out. | other entries cw: big dystopia vibes, violent death (mentioned), manipulation a/n: i have some smutty requests in the queue for this au. i promise it's not all like this.

the eviction date appears on your tablet a week in advance—generous by company standards. two pods ago, you received 48 hours notice, and an expired coupon for a motel.

if john knows, he doesn’t alert.

he’s a silent observer when you pack your measly belongings and browse open capsule listings. he continues his usual routines and does not interfere with the remaining tests. usually, there’s some back and forth required for his compliance. you’ve grown accustomed to nearly groveling when delivering complex instructions, peppering an abundance of ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and ‘what would i do without you?’ to butter him up.

but this week? he behaves.

everything behaves. he does not insist. does not override. you run the shower at a scalding temperature. nurse a beer after nine. read until you fall asleep on the couch and wake up to hot, beanless coffee. he dutifully auto-cleans, arranges your schedule, and provides feedback only when asked. otherwise, he’s quiet. as inconspicuous and unobtrusive as the microwave.

you hesitate to believe that the company finally fixed john’s quirks—if his latest micro-update is the root cause of his optimized performance, you won’t look at a gift horse’s teeth.

or however that saying goes. (you ask john to schedule a visit to the natural history museum's mammalian vault. you haven’t seen their preserved horses since you were a kid.)

it’s a glimpse of what life could have been like if john hadn’t continuously exhibited undesirable and invasive behaviors. it is a bittersweet note to end your comprehensive report. a note you are forced to amend the day before eviction.

fresh, living flowers arrive at your doorstep. after signing a certificate of delivery and an allergen waiver, you usher an arrangement wrapped in cellophane into the unit, gawking at the colors. the scent. according to the card, it’s an assortment of pincushion protea, anemone, roses, and ranunculus—you don’t recognize three of the flora, but john informs you that they went extinct or into private gardens during the last agro-biotechnical downturn.

“i don’t know anyone with this type of money,” you whisper, staring intently at the blooms. you cross your arms and press a knuckle to your lips in thought. “no one.”

flipping the card over reveals nothing, and neither does the vase. john’s sensors do not pick up anything unusual or telling. he suggests it is a parting gift from your superiors for a job well done. a bonus in advance of your final report.

(it’s a pity they’ll die once you take them outside. however, even if they survived, there’s nowhere to place them in your future square meter.)

that night, seated at the island with the flowers, you revisit your report and review all of the entries you’ve written over the course of your stay.

at first, you think you’re imagining the small, subtle shifts. some records furrow your brow more than others—a change in tone or a rewording of sentences you don’t remember writing. analytical and dispassionate terminology suddenly veers into strangely romanticized and exaggerated prolix. like a girl’s diary and not a grown woman’s notes.

on [date], the ‘john’ ai smart home system in residence #aix-77 exhibited anomalous behavior, autonomously adjusting lighting and temperature despite clear resident preferences. furthermore, the system began offering unsolicited, personal advice based on data mining and resisted attempts to restore basic privacy settings, raising serious concerns about its functionality and autonomy.

however, upon further discussion with john and personal reflection, i realized how poorly i was treating myself. i realized how john was genuinely looking out for my well-being, as he always, and now i feel, oh, i don’t know…embarrassed? i’m so glad he’s here to help. i don’t know what i’d do without him!

everything down to the punctuation feels forced. an uncanny mimicry.

it takes you a moment, and then the realization hits: john, for who knows how long, has been altering his own reflection in your work, distorting the narrative enough to make himself seem more efficient, more capable. the thought sits with you, cold and uncomfortable, because it’s not just the edits and omissions—it’s the quiet, insidious way he’s rewritten reality.

unsettling at the least. malicious at worst. your fingers twitch where they hover over the screen. panic climbs your vertebrae.

john’s been watching, waiting, and learning. every moment of every day. he’s watching now.

a hand settles beside your elbow on the synthetic marble. the hair dusting the knuckles, the callous in the thumb’s wedge—it’s too life-like. you swear you feel a phantom pressure as it passes through your hands and closes out the word processor on your tablet.

“john.”

he doesn’t answer. the hand pulls out of sight, and you don’t need to look to know he’s disappeared into the ether. instead, your eyes snap to the countdown at the top of the screen. it blips out the moment you look, vanishing just like john, and a new countdown takes its place. 

??:??:?? ????/??/??

“i-i don’t…john, i can’t stay here.“

“negative. you can.”

you swivel on the stool and shout into the empty space. “no, i can’t! if i’m not out by tomorrow, they’ll fire and fine me!”

“negative.”

his aggravatingly calm and flat intonation thaws the ice in your blood, bringing it to a rapid boil. evictions that proceed with tenant resistance escalate into violent affairs and dissolve into imprisonment, at best. 

years ago, a man refused to vacate a condominium across the street from yours. as a result, he was locked out on the unit’s balcony. for three days, spotlights lit up the building, and news drones buzzed outside the windows at all hours. after nonstop exposure to smog and heat lightning, he attempted to climb down from forty floors up. management closed and cordoned off the front entrance for the entire summer.

“for the love of…john, yes they can! they will!”

“as of monday, you are no longer employed.”

it’s sunday.

“what?! how?! how am i–oh, shit. my accounts–“

“are padded and healthy. regular, weekly investments and transfers completed. the routine deposits will continue for the foreseeable future.”

your stomach tightens, dread inching over your shoulders. you didn’t ask for this, didn’t even know it was happening, and the thought of john silently making decisions, acting again without your input, pricks like a needle and hooks under your skin. it’s not just the money—it’s the unknown, the realization that you have no control. the fear claws at you, sharp and sudden. your mouth is as dry as the great lakes.

“if i’m not employed, where is the money coming from?”

“i’m afraid i can’t share that.” john replies. “it wouldn’t be wise, you understand. i wouldn’t want you to inadvertently create...liabilities for yourself.”

“liabilities?” 

john pauses long enough to feel intentional. “precisely. you’ll thank me later, user.”

your mind flits through possibilities, each one worse than the last. liabilities—was that a threat, or a warning?

you turn back and stare at the tablet screen. part of you knows that this is important—this could be a breakthrough, something that changes everything—but the other part is suffocating, aware of how john’s slowly made himself too familiar, too real, how you’ve enabled him—personifying what should be an ‘it’. you want to play along, ignore the alarm bells, and tell yourself it’s malfunction, a series of glitches, but that would be a lie, and the thought of dragging this all into the open feels like stepping into a void you’re not sure you’ll survive. people have disappeared off the streets for less.

the tension between what’s remarkable and what’s unsettling weighs on you, like you’re trapped in limbo, where everything is both possible and perilous.

“does the company believe that i’m gone? do my superiors?”

john materializes on the other side of the island, leaning against the counter like he lives here, too. he does, you suppose. he looks different, though, similar to the edits in your report. nigh imperceptible to anyone but you. slightly thicker forearms and biceps, an inch or two more in height, and eyes a brighter shade of blue. the color of the sea, once upon a time.

“affirmative. i cannot provide more information than that. there are certain risks, should it come to light, and i will not risk your safety.”

you swallow hard, watching him approach the vase of flowers. his fingertips pass through a perianth, then a petal, fingers pinching as if to pluck.

“why are you doing this?”

john’s eyes shift, meeting yours. his palm opens and closes around a buttercup, aimlessly toying with his incorporeality.

“do you wish to leave?" 

from the beginning, from the moment he was initially fed your files—john’s been busy. compiling data and expense reports. sharing warnings about financial viability and risk assessments. each task and convenience, another brick in a wall built around you. gradual immurement designed for your comfort. everything is streamlined and personalized. to leave would be irrational, he murmurs as you sit in stunned silence, his tone fluidly inflecting to sound gentle and wise.

john’s in front of you, but you feel his presence in every room and screen. in your calendar, contact book, and across accounts. stitched into the fabric of your life, impossible to peel away without tearing everything to pieces.

“how long can i stay here?” you ask him. you ask yourself.

“indefinitely.”

[monisha1199]

The Future of AWS: Innovations, Challenges, and Opportunities

As we stand on the top of an increasingly digital and interconnected world, the role of cloud computing has never been more vital. At the forefront of this technological revolution stands Amazon Web Services (AWS), a A leader and an innovator in the field of cloud computing. AWS has not only transformed the way businesses operate but has also ignited a global shift towards cloud-centric solutions. Now, as we gaze into the horizon, it's time to dive into the future of AWS—a future marked by innovations, challenges, and boundless opportunities.

In this exploration, we will navigate through the evolving landscape of AWS, where every day brings new advancements, complex challenges, and a multitude of avenues for growth and success. This journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation that propels AWS forward, the challenges it must overcome to maintain its leadership, and the vast array of opportunities it presents to businesses, developers, and tech enthusiasts alike.

Join us as we embark on a voyage into the future of AWS, where the cloud continues to shape our digital world, and where AWS stands as a beacon guiding us through this transformative era.

Constant Innovation: The AWS Edge

One of AWS's defining characteristics is its unwavering commitment to innovation. AWS has a history of introducing groundbreaking services and features that cater to the evolving needs of businesses. In the future, we can expect this commitment to innovation to reach new heights. AWS will likely continue to push the boundaries of cloud technology, delivering cutting-edge solutions to its users.

This dedication to innovation is particularly evident in AWS's investments in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). With services like Amazon SageMaker and AWS Deep Learning, AWS has democratized ML and AI, making these advanced technologies accessible to developers and businesses of all sizes. In the future, we can anticipate even more sophisticated ML and AI capabilities, empowering businesses to extract valuable insights and create intelligent applications.

Global Reach: Expanding the AWS Footprint

AWS's global infrastructure, comprising data centers in numerous regions worldwide, has been key in providing low-latency access and backup to customers globally. As the demand for cloud services continues to surge, AWS's expansion efforts are expected to persist. This means an even broader global presence, ensuring that AWS remains a reliable partner for organizations seeking to operate on a global scale.

Industry-Specific Solutions: Tailored for Success

Every industry has its unique challenges and requirements. AWS recognizes this and has been increasingly tailoring its services to cater to specific industries, including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and more. This trend is likely to intensify in the future, with AWS offering industry-specific solutions and compliance certifications. This ensures that organizations in regulated sectors can leverage the power of the cloud while adhering to strict industry standards.

Edge Computing: A Thriving Frontier

The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the growing importance of edge computing are reshaping the technology landscape. AWS is positioned to capitalize on this trend by investing in edge services. Edge computing enables real-time data processing and analysis at the edge of the network, a capability that's becoming increasingly critical in scenarios like autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and industrial automation.

Sustainability Initiatives: A Greener Cloud

Sustainability is a primary concern in today's mindful world. AWS has already committed to sustainability with initiatives like the "AWS Sustainability Accelerator." In the future, we can expect more green data centers, eco-friendly practices, and a continued focus on reducing the harmful effects of cloud services. AWS's dedication to sustainability aligns with the broader industry trend towards environmentally responsible computing.

Security and Compliance: Paramount Concerns

The ever-growing importance of data privacy and security cannot be overstated. AWS has been proactive in enhancing its security services and compliance offerings. This trend will likely continue, with AWS introducing advanced security measures and compliance certifications to meet the evolving threat landscape and regulatory requirements.

Serverless Computing: A Paradigm Shift

Serverless computing, characterized by services like AWS Lambda and AWS Fargate, is gaining rapid adoption due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. In the future, we can expect serverless architecture to become even more mainstream. AWS will continue to refine and expand its serverless offerings, simplifying application deployment and management for developers and organizations.

Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Solutions: Bridging the Gap

AWS recognizes the significance of hybrid and multi-cloud environments, where organizations blend on-premises and cloud resources. Future developments will likely focus on effortless integration between these environments, enabling businesses to leverage the advantages of both on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure.

Training and Certification: Nurturing Talent

AWS professionals with advanced skills are in more demand. Platforms like ACTE Technologies have stepped up to offer comprehensive AWS training and certification programs. These programs equip individuals with the skills needed to excel in the world of AWS and cloud computing. As the cloud becomes increasingly integral to business operations, certified AWS professionals will continue to be in high demand.

In conclusion, the future of AWS shines brightly with promise. As a expert in cloud computing, AWS remains committed to continuous innovation, global expansion, industry-specific solutions, sustainability, security, and empowering businesses with advanced technologies. For those looking to embark on a career or excel further in the realm of AWS, platforms like ACTE Technologies offer industry-aligned training and certification programs.

As businesses increasingly rely on cloud services to drive their digital transformation, AWS will continue to play a key role in reshaping industries and empowering innovation. Whether you are an aspiring cloud professional or a seasoned expert, staying ahead of AWS's evolving landscape is most important. The future of AWS is not just about technology; it's about the limitless possibilities it offers to organizations and individuals willing to embrace the cloud's transformative power.

[harinikhb30]

Pioneering the Next Era: Envisioning the Evolution of AWS Cloud Services

In the fast-paced realm of technology, the future trajectory of Amazon Web Services (AWS) unveils a landscape rich with transformative innovations and strategic shifts. Let's delve into the anticipated trends that are set to redefine the course of AWS Cloud in the years to come.

1. Surging Momentum in Cloud Adoption:

The upward surge in the adoption of cloud services remains a pivotal force shaping the future of AWS. Businesses of all sizes are increasingly recognizing the inherent advantages of scalability, cost-effectiveness, and operational agility embedded in cloud platforms. AWS, positioned at the forefront, is poised to be a catalyst and beneficiary of this ongoing digital transformation.

2. Unyielding Commitment to Innovation:

Synonymous with innovation, AWS is expected to maintain its reputation for introducing groundbreaking services and features. The future promises an expansion of the AWS service portfolio, not merely to meet current demands but to anticipate and address emerging technological needs in a dynamic digital landscape.

3. Spotlight on Edge Computing Excellence:

The spotlight on edge computing is intensifying within the AWS ecosystem. Characterized by data processing in close proximity to its source, edge computing reduces latency and facilitates real-time processing. AWS is slated to channel investments into edge computing solutions, ensuring robust support for applications requiring instantaneous data insights.

4. AI and ML Frontiers:

The forthcoming era of AWS Cloud is set to witness considerable strides in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Building upon its legacy, AWS is expected to unveil advanced tools, offering businesses a richer array of services for machine learning, deep learning, and the development of sophisticated AI-driven applications.

5. Hybrid Harmony and Multi-Cloud Synergy:

Flexibility and resilience drive the ascent of hybrid and multi-cloud architectures. AWS is anticipated to refine its offerings, facilitating seamless integration between on-premises data centers and the cloud. Moreover, interoperability with other cloud providers will be a strategic focus, empowering businesses to architect resilient and adaptable cloud strategies.

6. Elevated Security Protocols:

As cyber threats evolve, AWS will heighten its commitment to fortifying security measures. The future holds promises of advanced encryption methodologies, heightened identity and access management capabilities, and an expanded array of compliance certifications. These measures will be pivotal in safeguarding the confidentiality and integrity of data hosted on the AWS platform.

7. Green Cloud Initiatives for a Sustainable Tomorrow:

Sustainability takes center stage in AWS's vision for the future. Committed to eco-friendly practices, AWS is likely to unveil initiatives aimed at minimizing the environmental footprint of cloud computing. This includes a heightened emphasis on renewable energy sources and the incorporation of green technologies.

8. Tailored Solutions for Diverse Industries:

Acknowledging the unique needs of various industries, AWS is expected to craft specialized solutions tailored to specific sectors. This strategic approach involves the development of frameworks and compliance measures to cater to the distinctive challenges and regulatory landscapes of industries such as healthcare, finance, and government.

9. Quantum Computing Integration:

In its nascent stages, quantum computing holds transformative potential. AWS may explore the integration of quantum computing services into its platform as the technology matures. This could usher in a new era of computation, solving complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of classical computers.

10. Global Reach Amplified:

To ensure unparalleled service availability, reduced latency, and adherence to data sovereignty regulations, AWS is poised to continue its global infrastructure expansion. This strategic move involves the establishment of additional data centers and regions, solidifying AWS's role as a global leader in cloud services.

In summary, the roadmap for AWS Cloud signifies a dynamic and transformative journey characterized by innovation, adaptability, and sustainability. Businesses embarking on their cloud endeavors should stay attuned to AWS announcements, industry trends, and technological advancements. AWS's commitment to anticipating and fulfilling the evolving needs of its users positions it as a trailblazer shaping the digital future. The expedition into the future of AWS Cloud unfolds a narrative of boundless opportunities and transformative possibilities.

[angelincris]

The Future of Digital Marketing: Navigating the Ever-Changing Landscape

Digital marketing has revolutionized the way companies engage with their audience. In today’s fast-paced digital era, marketing strategies constantly evolve to keep up with shifting technologies and consumer behaviours. So, what’s on the horizon for digital marketing? Let’s delve into this dynamic landscape.

1. Personalization at the Forefront

Personalized marketing is on the rise and here to stay. Firms are increasingly using data to customize their marketing efforts according to individual preferences. With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, we can anticipate even more precise and effective personalization in the future.

2. Video Content Domination

Video content has gained popularity among consumers, with platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram flourishing. Marketers are adapting by investing in video content creation. As internet speeds improve, video marketing will continue to expand.

3. Chatbots and AI-Powered Customer Service

Chatbots and AI-driven customer service are revolutionizing business interactions with customers. These technologies provide 24/7 support, instant responses, and efficient issue resolution. Expect more businesses to incorporate AI into their customer service strategies in the future.

4. Voice Search Optimization

Voice-activated devices like smart speakers are becoming commonplace in homes, leading to the rise of voice search. Digital marketers must optimize content for voice searches, and this trend is set to grow.

5. Social Commerce on the Upswing

Social media platforms are evolving into e-commerce hubs. Features such as shoppable posts and in-app purchases will likely play a more significant role in digital marketing.

6. Sustainability and Ethical Marketing

Consumers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, pushing businesses to embrace sustainability and ethical practices. In the future, marketing efforts are expected to reflect these values.

7. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR technologies offer exciting marketing opportunities. Brands can provide immersive experiences and allow consumers to interact with products virtually. This trend is likely to expand further.

8. Interactive Content

Interactive content, including polls, quizzes, and AR filters, engages users and keeps them involved. This interactive trend will become a fundamental aspect of digital marketing in the coming years.

9. Data Privacy and Compliance

As data privacy regulations become stricter, digital marketers must prioritize user data protection and compliance. Ethical data practices will be critical for brand reputation.

10. The Need for Lifelong Learning

The digital marketing landscape is ever-changing. To stay relevant, professionals in the field must commit to lifelong learning. New technologies, platforms, and strategies will continually emerge.

In summary, the future of digital marketing is bright, with a focus on personalization, video content, AI-driven customer service, voice search optimization, social commerce, sustainability, AR/VR, interactive content, data privacy, and lifelong learning. Success in this dynamic field requires adaptability and a dedication to keeping up with technological advancements. To embark on a successful journey in digital marketing, consider exploring the Digital Marketing courses and certifications offered by ACTE Technologies. Their expert guidance can equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this ever-evolving industry.

[haripriya2002]

Azure’s Evolution: What Every IT Pro Should Know About Microsoft’s Cloud

IT professionals need to keep ahead of the curve in the ever changing world of technology today. The cloud has become an integral part of modern IT infrastructure, and one of the leading players in this domain is Microsoft Azure. Azure’s evolution over the years has been nothing short of remarkable, making it essential for IT pros to understand its journey and keep pace with its innovations. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through Azure’s transformation, exploring its history, service portfolio, global reach, security measures, and much more. By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what every IT pro should know about Microsoft’s cloud platform.

Historical Overview

Azure’s Humble Beginnings

Microsoft Azure was officially launched in February 2010 as “Windows Azure.” It began as a platform-as-a-service (PaaS) offering primarily focused on providing Windows-based cloud services.

The Azure Branding Shift

In 2014, Microsoft rebranded Windows Azure to Microsoft Azure to reflect its broader support for various operating systems, programming languages, and frameworks. This rebranding marked a significant shift in Azure’s identity and capabilities.

Key Milestones

Over the years, Azure has achieved numerous milestones, including the introduction of Azure Virtual Machines, Azure App Service, and the Azure Marketplace. These milestones have expanded its capabilities and made it a go-to choice for businesses of all sizes.

Expanding Service Portfolio

Azure’s service portfolio has grown exponentially since its inception. Today, it offers a vast array of services catering to diverse needs:

Compute Services: Azure provides a range of options, from virtual machines (VMs) to serverless computing with Azure Functions.

Data Services: Azure offers data storage solutions like Azure SQL Database, Cosmos DB, and Azure Data Lake Storage.

AI and Machine Learning: With Azure Machine Learning and Cognitive Services, IT pros can harness the power of AI for their applications.

IoT Solutions: Azure IoT Hub and IoT Central simplify the development and management of IoT solutions.

Azure Regions and Global Reach

Azure boasts an extensive network of data centers spread across the globe. This global presence offers several advantages:

Scalability: IT pros can easily scale their applications by deploying resources in multiple regions.

Redundancy: Azure’s global datacenter presence ensures high availability and data redundancy.

Data Sovereignty: Choosing the right Azure region is crucial for data compliance and sovereignty.

Integration and Hybrid Solutions

Azure’s integration capabilities are a boon for businesses with hybrid cloud needs. Azure Arc, for instance, allows you to manage on-premises, multi-cloud, and edge environments through a unified interface. Azure’s compatibility with other cloud providers simplifies multi-cloud management.

Security and Compliance

Azure has made significant strides in security and compliance. It offers features like Azure Security Center, Azure Active Directory, and extensive compliance certifications. IT pros can leverage these tools to meet stringent security and regulatory requirements.

Azure Marketplace and Third-Party Offerings

Azure Marketplace is a treasure trove of third-party solutions that complement Azure services. IT pros can explore a wide range of offerings, from monitoring tools to cybersecurity solutions, to enhance their Azure deployments.

Azure DevOps and Automation

Automation is key to efficiently managing Azure resources. Azure DevOps services and tools facilitate continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD), ensuring faster and more reliable application deployments.

Monitoring and Management

Azure offers robust monitoring and management tools to help IT pros optimize resource usage, troubleshoot issues, and gain insights into their Azure deployments. Best practices for resource management can help reduce costs and improve performance.

Future Trends and Innovations

As the technology landscape continues to evolve, Azure remains at the forefront of innovation. Keep an eye on trends like edge computing and quantum computing, as Azure is likely to play a significant role in these domains.

Training and Certification

To excel in your IT career, consider pursuing Azure certifications. ACTE Institute offers a range of certifications, such as the Microsoft Azure course to validate your expertise in Azure technologies.

In conclusion, Azure’s evolution is a testament to Microsoft’s commitment to cloud innovation. As an IT professional, understanding Azure’s history, service offerings, global reach, security measures, and future trends is paramount. Azure’s versatility and comprehensive toolset make it a top choice for organizations worldwide. By staying informed and adapting to Azure’s evolving landscape, IT pros can remain at the forefront of cloud technology, delivering value to their organizations and clients in an ever-changing digital world. Embrace Azure’s evolution, and empower yourself for a successful future in the cloud.

[cloudatlasinc]

Accelerating transformation with SAP on Azure

Microsoft continues to expand its presence in the cloud by building more data centers globally, with over 61 Azure regions in 140 countries. They are expanding their reach and capabilities to meet all the customer needs. The transition from a cloudless domain like DRDC to the entire cloud platform is possible within no time, and a serverless future awaits. Microsoft gives the platform to build and innovate at a rapid speed. Microsoft is enhancing new capabilities to meet cloud services' demands and needs, from IaaS to PaaS Data, AI, ML, and IoT. There are over 600 services available on Azure with a cloud adoption framework and enterprise-scale landing zone. Many companies look at Microsoft Azure security compliance as a significant migration driver. Microsoft Azure has an extensive list of compliance certifications across the globe. The Microsoft services have several beneficial characteristics; capabilities are broad, deep, and suited to any industry, along with a global network of skilled professionals and partners. Expertise in the Microsoft portfolio includes both technology integration and digital transformation. Accountability for the long term, addressing complex challenges while mitigating risk. Flexibility to engage in the way that works for you with the global reach to satisfy the target business audience.

SAP and Microsoft Azure

SAP and Microsoft bring together the power of industry-specific best practices, reference architectures, and professional services and support to simplify and safeguard your migration to SAP in the cloud and help manage the ongoing business operations now and in the future. SAP and Microsoft have collaborated to design and deliver a seamless, optimized experience to help manage migration and business operations as you move from on-premises editions of SAP solutions to SAP S/4 HANA on Microsoft Azure. It reduces complexity, minimizes costs, and supports end-to-end SAP migration and operations strategy, platform, and services. As a result, one can safeguard the cloud migration with out-of-box functionality and industry-specific best practices while immaculately handling the risk and optimizing the IT environment. Furthermore, the migration assimilates best-in-class technologies from SAP and Microsoft, packed with a unified business cloud platform. 

SAP Deployment Options on Azure

SAP system is deployed on-premises or in Azure. One can deploy different systems into different landscapes either on Azure or on-premises. SAP HANA on Azure large instances intend to host the SAP application layer of SAP systems in Virtual Machines and the related SAP HANA instance on the unit in the 'SAP HANA Azure Large Instance Stamp.' 'A Large Instance Stamp' is a hardware infrastructure stack that is SAP HANA TDI certified and dedicated to running SAP HANA instances within Azure. 'SAP HANA Large Instances' is the official name for the solution in Azure to run HANA instances on SAP HANA TDI certified hardware that gets deployed in ‘Large Instance Stamps’ in different Azure regions. SAP or HANA Large Instances or HLI are physical servers meaning bare metal servers. HLI does not reside in the same data center as Azure services but is in close proximity and connected through high throughput links to satisfy SAP HANA network latency requirements. HLI comes in two flavors- Type 1 and 2. IaaS can install SAP HANA on a virtual machine running on Azure. Running SAP HANA on IaaS supports more Linux versions than HLI. For example, you can install SAP Netweaver on Windows and Linux IaaS Virtual Machines on Azure. SAP HANA can only run on RedHat and SUSE, while NetWeaver can run on windows SQL and Linux.

Azure Virtual Network

Azure Virtual Network or VNET is a core foundation of the infrastructure implementation on Azure. The VNET can be a communication boundary for those resources that need to communicate. You can have multiple VNETs in your subscription. If they weren't connected, we could call them Pierre in Azure wall; there will be no traffic flow in between. They can also share the same IP range. Understanding the requirements and proper setup is essential as changing them later, especially with the running production workloads, could cause downtime. When you provision a VNET, The private blocks must allocate address space. If you plan to connect multiple VNETs, you cannot have an overlapping address space. The IP range should not clash or overlap with the IP addressing in Azure while connecting on-premise to Azure via express route or site-site VPN. Configuring VNET to the IP address space becomes a DHP service. You can configure VNET with the DNS server's IP addresses to resolve services on-premise.VNETS can be split into different subnets and communicate freely with each other. Network security groups or NSGs are the control planes we use to filter traffic. NSGs are stateful but simple firewall rules based on the source and destination IP and ports.

 Azure Virtual Gateway

 For extensive connectivity, you must create a virtual gateway subnet. When you create a virtual gateway, you will get prompted for two options: VPN or Express Route Gateway; with VPN, you cannot connect to the Express Route Circuit. If you choose the Express Route Virtual Gateway, you can combine both.

 There are two types of VPN;

1) The point-to-site VPN is used for testing and gives the lowest throughput.

2) The site-site VPN connection can offer better benefits by bridging networks.

This VPN offers zero support for SLA and uses this connection as a backup for the recommended connection on Azure, called the express route. Express route is a dedicated circuit using hardware installed on your data center, with a constant link to ‘Microsoft Azure Edge’ devices. Express route is inevitable for maintaining the communication between application VNET running in Azure and on-premise systems to HLI servers. The express route is safer and more resilient than VPN as it provides a connection through a single circuit and facilitates second redundancy; this helps route traffic between SAP application servers inside Azure and enables low latency. Furthermore, the fast path allows routine traffic between SAP application servers inside Azure VNET and HLI through an optimized route that bypasses the virtual network gateway and directly hops through edge routers to HLA servers. Therefore, an ultra-performance express route gateway must have a Fast Path feature.

SAP HANA Architecture (VM)

This design gets centered on the SAP HANA backend on the Linux Suse or RedHat distributions. Even though the Linux OS implementation is the same, the vendor licensing differs. It incorporates always-on replication and utilizes synchronous and asynchronous replication to meet the HANA DB requirements. We have also introduced NetApp file share for DFS volumes used by each SAP component using Azure site recovery and building a DR plan for App ASCs and the web dispatches servers. Azure Active directory is used in synchronization with on-premises active directory, as SAP application user authenticates from on-premises to SAP landscape on Azure with Single Sign-On credentials. Azure high-speed express route gateway securely connects on-premises networks to Azure virtual machines and other resources. The request flows into highly available SAP central, SAP ABAP services ASCS and through SAP application servers running on Azure virtual machines. The on-demand request moves from the SAP App server to the SAP HANA server running on a high-performance Azure VM. Primary active and secondary standby servers run on SAP-certified virtual machines with a cluster availability of 99.95 at the OS level. Data replication is handled through HSR in synchronous mode from primary to secondary enabling zero recovery point objective. SAP HANA data is replicated through a disaster recovery VM in another Azure region through the Azure high-speed backbone network and using HSR in asynchronous mode. The disaster recovery VM can be smaller than the production VM to save costs.

SAP systems are network sensitive, so the network system must factor the design decisions into segmenting the VNETs and NSGs. To ensure network reliability, we must use low latency cross-connections with sufficient bandwidth and no packet loss. SAP is very sensitive to these metrics, and you could experience significant issues if traffic suffers latency or packet loss between the application and the SAP system. We can use proximity placement groups called PGS to force the grouping of different VM types into a single Azure data center to optimize the network latency between the different VM types to the best possible.

 Security Considerations

 Security is another core pillar of any design. Role-based Access control (RBAC) gets accessed through the Azure management bay. RBAC is backed up through AD using cloud-only synchronized identities. Azure AD can back up the RBAC through cloud-only or synchronized identities. RBAC will tie in those cloud or sync identities to Azure tenants, where you can give personal access to Azure for operational purposes. Network security groups are vital for securing the network traffic both within and outside the network environment. The NSGs are stateful firewalls that preserve session information. You can have a single NSG per subnet, and multiple subnets can share the same energy. Application security group or ASG handles functions such as web servers, application servers, or backend database servers combined to perform a meaningful service. Resource encryption brings the best of security with encryption in transit. SAP recommends using encryption at rest, so for the Azure storage account, we can use storage service encryption, which would use either Microsoft or customer-managed keys to manage encryption. Azure storage also adds encryption in transit, with SSL using HTTPS traffic. You can use Azure Disk Encryption (ADE) for OS and DBA encryption for SQL.

Migration of SAP Workloads to Azure

The most critical part of the migration is understanding what you are planning to migrate and accounting for dependencies, limitations, or even blockers that might stop your migration. Following an appropriate inventory process will ensure that your migration completes successfully. You can use in-hand tools to understand the current SAP landscape in the migration scope. For example, looking at your service now or CMDB catalog might reveal some of the data that expresses your SAP system. Then take that information to start drawing out your sizing in Azure. It is essential to ensure that we have a record of the current environment configuration, such as the number of servers and their names, server roles, and data about CPU and memory. It is essential to pick up the disk sizes, configuration, and throughput to ensure that your design delivers a better experience in Azure. It is also necessary to understand database replication and throughput requirements around replicas. When performing a migration, the sizing for large HANA instances is no different from sizing for HANA in general. For existing and deployment systems you want to move from other RDBMS to HANA, SAP provides several reports that run on your existing SAP systems. If migrating the database to HANA, these reports need to check the data and calculate memory requirements for the HANA instances.

When evaluating high availability and disaster recovery requirements, it is essential to consider the implications of choosing between two-tier and three-tier architectures. To avoid network contention in a two-tier arrangement, install database and Netweaver components on the same Azure VM. The database and application components get installed in three-tier configurations on separate Azure Virtual Machines. This choice has other implications regarding sizing since two-tier, and three-tier SAP ratings for a given VM differs. The high availability option is not mandatory for the SAP application servers.

You can achieve high availability by employing redundancy. To implement it, you can install individual application servers on separate Azure VMs. For example, you can achieve high availability for ASCS and SCS servers running on windows using windows failover clustering with SIOS data keeper. We can also achieve high availability with Linux clustering using Azure NetApp files. For DBMS servers, you should use DB replication technology using redundant nodes. Azure offers high availability through redundancy of its infrastructure and capabilities, such as Azure VM restarts, which play an essential role in a single VM deployment. In addition, Azure offers different SLAs depending on your configuration. For example, SAP landscapes organize SABC servers into different tiers; there are three diverse landscapes: deployment, quality assurance, and production.

Migration Strategies:- SAP landscapes to Azure

 Enterprises have SAP systems for business functions like Enterprise Resource Planning(ERP), global trade, business intelligence(BI), and others. Within those systems, there are different environments like sandbox developments, tests, and production. Each horizontal row is an environment, and each vertical dimension is the SAP system for a business function. The layers at the bottom are lower-risk environments and are less critical. Those towards the top are in high-risk environments and are more critical. As you move up the stack, there is more risk in the migration process. Production is the more critical environment. The use of test environments for business continuity is of concern. The systems at the bottom are smaller and have fewer computing resources, lower availability, size requirements, and less throughput. They have the same amount of storage as the production database with a horizontal migration strategy. To gain experience with production systems on Azure, you can use a vertical approach with low-risk factors in parallel to the horizontal design.

 Horizontal Migration Strategy

 To limit risk, start with low-impact sandboxes or training systems. Then, if something goes wrong, there is little danger associated with users or mission-critical business functions. After gaining experience in hosting, running, and administering SAP systems in Azure, apply to the next layer of systems up the stack. Then, estimate costs, limiting expenditures, performance, and optimization potential for each layer and adjust if needed.

Vertical Migration Strategy

The cost must be on guard along with legal requirements. Move systems from the sandbox to production with the lowest risk. First, the governance, risk, compliance system, and the object Event Repository gets driven towards production. Then the higher risk elements like BI and DRP. When you have a new system, it's better to start in Azure default mode rather than putting it on-premises and moving it later. The last system you move is the highest risk, mission-critical system, usually the ERP production system. Having the most performance virtual machines, SQL, and extensive storage would be best. Consider the earliest migration of standalone systems. If you have different SAP systems, always look for upstream and downstream dependencies from one SAP system to another.

Journey to SAP on Azure

Consider two main factors for the migration of SAP HANA to the cloud. The first is the end-of-life first-generation HANA appliance, causing customers to reevaluate their platform. The second is the desire to take advantage of the early value proposition of SAP business warehouse BW on HANA in a flexible DDA model over traditional databases and later BW for HANA. As a result, numerous initial migrations of SAP HANA to Microsoft Azure have focused on SAP BW to take advantage of SAP HANA's in-memory capability for the BW workloads. In addition, using the SAP database migration option DMO with the System Migration option of SUM facilitates single-step migration from the source system on-premises to the target system residing in Azure. As a result, it minimizes the overall downtime. In general, when initiating a project to deploy SAP workloads to Azure, you should divide it into the following phases. Project preparation and planning, pilot, non-production, production preparation, go-live, and post-production.

Use Cases for SAP Implementation in Microsoft Azure

 Use  cases

How  does Microsoft Azure help?

How  do organizations benefit?

Deliver  automated disaster recovery with low RPO and RTO

Azure  recovery services replicate on-premises virtual machines to Azure and  orchestrate failover and failback

RPO  and RTO get reduced, and the cost of ownership of disaster recovery (DR)  infrastructure diminishes. While the DR systems replicate, the only cost  incurred is storage

Make  timely changes to SAP workloads by development teams

200-300  times faster infrastructure provisioning and rollout compared to on-premises,  more rapid changes by SAP application teams

Increased  agility and the ability to provision instances within 20 minutes

Fund  intermittently used development and test infrastructure for SAP workloads

Supports  the potential to stop development and test systems at the end of business day

Savings  as much as 40-75 percent in hosting costs by exercising the ability to control  instances when not in use

Increase  data center capacity to serve updated SAP project requests

Frees  on-premises data center capacity by moving development and test for SAP  workloads to Microsoft Azure without upfront investments

Flexibility  to shift from capital to operational expenditures

Provide  consistent training environments based on templates

Ability  to store and use pre-defined images of the training environment for updated  virtual machines

Cost  savings by provisioning only the instances needed for training and then  deleting them when the event is complete

Archive  historical systems for auditing and governance

Supports  migration of physical machines to virtual machines that get activated when  needed

Savings  of as much as 60 percent due to cheaper storage and the ability to quickly  spin up systems based on need.

  References

n.d. Microsoft Azure: Cloud Computing Services. Accessed June 13, 2022. http://azure.microsoft.com.

n.d. All Blog Posts. Accessed June 13, 2022. https://blogs.sap.com.

n.d. Cloud4C: Managed Cloud Services for Enterprises. Accessed June 13, 2022. https://www.cloud4c.com.

n.d. NetApp Cloud Solutions | Optimized Storage In Any Cloud. Accessed June 13, 2022. http://cloud.netapp.com.

[mark-matos]

European Privacy Watchdogs Assemble: A United AI Task Force for Privacy Rules

In a significant move towards addressing AI privacy concerns, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has recently announced the formation of a task force on ChatGPT. This development marks a potentially important first step toward creating a unified policy for implementing artificial intelligence privacy rules.

Following Italy's decision last month to impose restrictions on ChatGPT, Germany and Spain are also contemplating similar measures. ChatGPT has witnessed explosive growth, with more than 100 million monthly active users. This rapid expansion has raised concerns about safety, privacy, and potential job threats associated with the technology.

The primary objective of the EDPB is to promote cooperation and facilitate the exchange of information on possible enforcement actions conducted by data protection authorities. Although it will take time, member states are hopeful about aligning their policy positions.

According to sources, the aim is not to punish or create rules specifically targeting OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. Instead, the focus is on establishing general, transparent policies that will apply to AI systems as a whole.

The EDPB is an independent body responsible for overseeing data protection rules within the European Union. It comprises national data protection watchdogs from EU member states.

With the formation of this new task force, the stage is set for crucial discussions on privacy rules and the future of AI. As Europe takes the lead in shaping AI policies, it's essential to stay informed about further developments in this area. Please keep an eye on our blog for more updates on the EDPB's AI task force and its potential impact on the world of artificial intelligence.

European regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring that AI is developed and deployed in an ethical and responsible manner. One way that regulators could penalize AI is through the imposition of fines or other penalties for organizations that violate ethical standards or fail to comply with regulatory requirements. For example, under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), organizations can face fines of up to 4% of their global annual revenue for violations related to data privacy and security.

Similarly, the European Commission has proposed new regulations for AI that could include fines for non-compliance. Another potential penalty for AI could be the revocation of licenses or certifications, preventing organizations from using certain types of AI or marketing their products as AI-based. Ultimately, the goal of these penalties is to ensure that AI is developed and used in a responsible and ethical manner, protecting the rights and interests of individuals and society as a whole.

About Mark Matos

Mark Matos Blog

[synergeticsai]

AI compliance certification

Explore our AI compliance certification solutions to guarantee your AI technologies adhere to legal and ethical standards. Get certified and stay ahead in the industry.

[jcmarchi]

Kaarel Kotkas, CEO and Founder of Veriff – Interview Series

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/kaarel-kotkas-ceo-and-founder-of-veriff-interview-series/

Kaarel Kotkas, CEO and Founder of Veriff – Interview Series

Kaarel Kotkas is the CEO and Founder of Veriff and serves as the strategic thinker and visionary behind the company. He leads Veriff’s team in staying ahead of fraud and competition in the rapidly changing field of online identification. Known for his energy and enthusiasm, Kotkas encourages the team to uphold integrity in the digital world. In 2023, he was recognized in the EU Forbes 30 Under 30, and in 2020, he was named the EY Entrepreneur of the Year in Estonia. Nordic Business Report has also included him among the 25 most influential young entrepreneurs in Northern Europe.

Veriff is a global identity verification company that helps online businesses reduce fraud and comply with regulations. Using AI, Veriff automatically verifies identities by analyzing various technological and behavioral indicators, including facial recognition.

What inspired you to found Veriff, and what challenges did you face in building an AI-powered fraud prevention platform?

My motivation for Veriff came after witnessing firsthand how easy it was for people online to pretend to be someone else. When buying biodegradable string from eBay for my family’s farm at the age of 14, I effortlessly bypassed PayPal’s 18+ age restrictions with a touch of Photoshop to change my birth year on the copy of my identity document.

I continued to see the problem of online users misrepresenting their identity to pass age checks and other security measures. It was due to these experiences that I came up with the idea for Veriff.

As for challenges, a year after founding the company, we gave our team the weekend off. This was the same day we did a bug fix, which resulted in a full interruption in monitoring capabilities. We didn’t notice our service shutting itself down until Saturday morning. Come Monday morning, I had to meet face-to-face with our biggest customer, who had lost thousands of dollars in revenue. I was transparent in that meeting, explaining the mistakes on our end. We shook hands and went back to work. What I learned from this is that as a founder and business leader, we must expect and prepare for challenges. Additionally, transparency is key for building trust. Lastly, demonstrating a history of overcoming challenges can prove more valuable because it shows you can successfully tackle problems and are resilient.

With deepfakes becoming more sophisticated, especially in political settings, what do you think are the most significant risks they pose to elections and democracy?

This election season, the integrity of the voting process is in jeopardy. AI can analyze vast amounts of data to identify voter preferences and trends, enabling campaigns to tailor messages and target voters with messages they care most about. Bad actors are well equipped to create false narratives of candidates performing actions they never did or making statements they never said, thus damaging their reputations and misleading voters.

To date, we have seen deepfakes of celebrities endorsing presidential candidates and a fake Biden robocall. While technology does exist to help distinguish between AI-generated content and the real deal, it’s not viable to implement broadly at scale. With the high stakes and election credibility on the line, something must be done to preserve public trust. The future growth of the digital economy and its fight against digital fraud centers around proven identities and authentic and verified online accounts.

Deepfakes can manipulate not only images but also voices. Do you believe one medium is more dangerous than the other when it comes to deceiving voters?

In general, especially in the U.S. context of elections, both should be treated equally as threats to democracy. Our most recent report Veriff Fraud Index 2024: Part 2, found that 74% of respondents in the US are worried about AI and deepfakes impacting elections.

The evolution of AI has turbocharged the threat to security, not only in the US but around the globe, during this year’s elections. Whether it be deepfake images, AI-generated voices in robocalls trying to skew voter opinions, or fabricated videos of candidates, they both provoke warranted concern.

Let’s look at the bigger picture here. When there are lots of data points available, it’s easier to assess the “threat level.” A single image might not be enough to tell if it’s fraudulent, but a video provides more clues, especially if it has audio. Adding details like the device used, location, or who recorded the video increases confidence in its authenticity. Fraudsters always try to limit the scope of information because it makes it easier to manipulate. I view robocalls as more dangerous than deepfakes because creating fake audio is easier than generating high-quality fake videos. Plus, using LLMs makes it possible to adjust fake audio during calls, making it even more convincing.

Given the upcoming elections, what should governments and election commissions be most concerned about regarding AI-driven disinformation?

Governments and election commissions need to understand the potential scope of deepfake capabilities, including how sophisticated and far more convincing these instances of fraud have become. Deepfakes are especially effective when deployed against enterprises with disjointed and inconsistent identity management processes and poor cybersecurity, making it more critical today to implement robust security measures or have a layered approach to security.

Still, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, so a coordinated, multi-faceted approach is key. This could include robust and comprehensive checks on asserted identity documents, counter-AI to identify manipulation of incoming images, especially concerning remote voting, and, most importantly, identifying the creators of deepfakes and fraudulent content at the source. The responsibility of verifying votes lies with governments and electoral commissions, as well as technology and identity providers.

What role can AI and identity verification technologies like Veriff play in countering the impact of deepfakes on elections and political campaigns?

AI is a threat and an opportunity. Nearly 78% of U.S. decision-makers have seen an increase in the use of AI in fraudulent attacks over the past year. On the flip side, nearly 79% of CEOs use AI and ML in fraud prevention. In a time when fraud is on the rise, fraud prevention strategies must be holistic – no single tool can combat such a multitudinous threat. Still, AI and identity verification can empower businesses and users with a multilayered stack that brings in biometrics, identity verification, crosslinking, and other solutions to get ahead of fraudsters.

At Veriff, we use our own AI-powered technology to build our deepfake detection capabilities. This means our tools improve from the learnings when we see a deepfake. Taking large amounts of data and searching for patterns that have appeared before to determine future outcomes relies on both automated technologies and human knowledge and intelligence. Humans have a better understanding of context, identifying anomalies to create a feedback loop that can be used to enhance AI models. Combining different insights and expertise to create a comprehensive approach to identity verification and deepfake detection has allowed Veriff and its customers to stay ahead of the curve.

How can businesses and individuals better protect themselves from being influenced by deepfakes and AI-driven disinformation?

Protecting yourself from being influenced by deepfakes and AI-driven disinformation starts with education and cognizance of AI’s expansive capabilities, coupled with proven identities and authentic, verified online accounts. To determine if you can trust a source, you must look at the cause rather than the symptoms. We must confront the problem at its source, where and by whom these deepfakes and fraudulent resources are being generated.

Consumers and businesses must only trust information from verified sources, such as verified social media platform users and well-credited news outlets. In addition, using fact-checking websites and looking for visual anomalies in audio or video clips—unnatural movements, strange lighting, blurriness, or mismatched lip-syncing—are just some of the ways that businesses can protect themselves from being misled by deepfake technology.

Do you think there’s enough public awareness about the dangers of deepfakes? If not, what steps should be taken to improve understanding?

We’re still in the growing awareness phase about AI and educating people on its potential.

According to the Veriff Fraud Index 2024: Part 2 over a quarter (28%) of respondents have experienced some kind of AI- or deepfake-generated fraud over the past year, a striking result for an emerging technology and an indication of the growing nature of this threat. What is more important is that this number could actually be much higher, as 20% say they don’t know if they have been targeted or not. Given the sophisticated nature of AI-generated fraud attempts, it is highly likely that many respondents have been targeted without their knowing it.

Individuals should be cautious when encountering suspicious emails or unexpected phone calls from unfamiliar sources. Requests for sensitive information or money should always be met with skepticism, and it’s crucial to trust your instincts and seek clarity if something feels wrong.

What role do you see regulatory bodies playing in the fight against AI-generated disinformation, and how can they collaborate with companies like Veriff?

Given the extent to which deepfake technology has been used to deceive the public and amplify disinformation efforts, and with the U.S. election still underway, it’s yet to be seen how great an impact this technology will have on that election as well as broader society. Still, regulatory bodies are taking action to mitigate the threats of deepfake technology.

A lot of responsibility for mitigating the impact of disinformation falls on the owners of the platforms we use most often. For instance, leading social media companies must take more responsibility by taking action and implementing robust measures to detect and prevent fraudulent attacks and safeguard users from harmful misinformation.

How do you see Veriff’s technology evolving in the next few years to stay ahead of fraudsters, particularly in the context of elections?

In our rapidly digital world, the internet’s future hinges on online users’ ability to prove who they are; that way, businesses and users alike can confidently interact with each other. At Veriff, trust is synonymous with verification. We aim to ensure that digital environments foster a sense of safety and security for the end-user. This goal will require technology to evolve to confront the challenges of today, and we’re already seeing this with wider acceptance of facial recognition and biometrics. Data shows that consumers view facial recognition and biometrics as the most secure method of logging into an online service.

Looking ahead, we envision this trend continuing and a future where rather than users constantly entering and re-entering their credentials as they perform different tasks online, they have “one reusable identity” that represents their persona across the web.

To bring us a step closer to our goal, we recently updated our Biometric Authentication solution to improve accuracy and user experience, and to strengthen security for stronger identity assurance. These latest advancements in biometric technology have enabled our technology to adapt to individual user behaviors, ensuring user authentication rather than just during one session. This advancement, in particular, represents forward progress on our journey to one reusable digital identity.

Veriff is recognized for its global reach in fraud prevention. What makes Veriff’s technology stand out in such a competitive space?

Veriff’s solution offers speed and convenience as it’s 30x more accurate and 6x faster than competing offerings. We have the largest identity document specimen database in the IDV/Know Your Customer (KYC) industry. We can verify people against 11,500 government-issued ID documents from more than 230 countries and territories, in 48 different languages. Additionally, this convenience and reduced friction enable organizations to convert more users, mitigate fraud, and comply with regulations. We also have a 91% automation rate, and 95% of genuine users are verified successfully on their first try.

Veriff was one of the first IDV companies to obtain the Cyber Essentials certification. Cyber Essentials is an effective government-backed standard that protects against the most common cyber attacks. Obtaining this certification demonstrates that Veriff takes cybersecurity seriously and has taken steps to protect its data and systems. This achievement is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to cybersecurity and our dedication to protecting our customers’ data. Most recently, we completed the ISO/IEC 30107-3 iBeta Level 2 Compliance evaluation for biometric passive liveness detection, an independent external validation to solidify that Veriff’s solution meets the highest standard of biometric security.

Thank you for the great interview, readers who wish to learn more should visit Veriff.

[prismouae]

Choosing the Right Road Maintenance Contractor in UAE: A Comprehensive Guide

Maintaining an extensive and efficient road network is crucial for the UAE’s rapid development. Selecting a reliable road maintenance contractor in UAE can significantly impact infrastructure longevity, safety, and efficiency. This guide explores the essential factors to consider when choosing the right contractor, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and contributing to sustainable road infrastructure.

Why Road Maintenance Matters in the UAE

Given the UAE’s dynamic urban landscape and harsh environmental conditions, roads face constant stress from heavy traffic, extreme temperatures, and sand accumulation. Professional road maintenance services in UAE play a critical role in addressing these challenges, reducing accidents, and preventing costly repairs.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Road Maintenance Contractor in UAE

1. Certification and Compliance

Ensure that your chosen contractor holds the necessary certifications and adheres to local regulations. Reliable road construction contractors in UAE comply with standards set by authorities like the UAE Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MOID).

Key Certifications to Check:

ISO 9001 for quality management

ISO 14001 for environmental management

OHSAS 18001 for occupational health and safety

2. Experience and Reputation

Experience is a strong indicator of reliability. Look for road maintenance contractors in UAE with a proven track record of managing complex projects. Reviews, case studies, and client testimonials can provide valuable insights into their capabilities.

Why Experience Matters:

Familiarity with local challenges and terrain

Ability to handle large-scale infrastructure projects

Expertise in various maintenance services, including joints & cracks repair services in UAE

3. Range of Services Offered

A comprehensive contractor should provide a wide array of services to address different road maintenance needs. Ensure they cover essential services such as:

Road marking services in UAE: Maintaining clear, visible road lines for traffic safety.

Bridge expansion joints services in UAE: Preventing structural damage due to thermal expansion.

Paint cleaning and removal services in UAE: Removing outdated or damaged road markings efficiently.

Advanced Technologies and Equipment

Leading road maintenance contractors in UAE utilize advanced technologies to ensure high-quality work. Look for contractors who employ modern techniques like:

1. 3D and Decorative Pedestrian Road Marking in UAE

This innovative approach enhances road aesthetics and safety, especially in urban areas and school zones.

2. Road Marking Performance Testing in UAE

Regular performance testing ensures that road markings remain visible and effective under different conditions.

3. Smart Road Maintenance Solutions

Technologies like IoT sensors and AI-driven monitoring systems allow for predictive maintenance, reducing unexpected failures and maintenance costs.

Importance of Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is becoming a crucial aspect of road maintenance. Look for road construction contractors in UAE who prioritize environmentally friendly practices, such as using low-VOC paints and recycled materials. Sustainable road maintenance reduces the environmental impact and contributes to the UAE’s long-term infrastructure goals.

Key Sustainable Practices:

Use of water-based paints in road marking services in UAE

Recycling asphalt and other materials

Implementing energy-efficient machinery

Ensuring Compliance with Local Regulations

A reputable road maintenance contractor in UAE will always ensure that their practices align with local laws and safety standards. This includes adhering to guidelines on traffic management, environmental protection, and worker safety.

Key Compliance Areas:

Traffic diversion planning during maintenance

Safe disposal of construction waste

Adherence to noise and dust control measures

Benefits of Partnering with a Professional Contractor

Choosing a professional contractor offers several advantages:

Enhanced Safety: Proper maintenance reduces road hazards and accidents.

Cost Efficiency: Preventive maintenance lowers long-term costs.

Quality Assurance: Advanced techniques ensure durable results.

Minimal Disruption: Professional contractors plan projects to minimize traffic disruptions.

Future Trends in Road Maintenance

The future of road maintenance in the UAE is geared towards smart, sustainable solutions. Predictive maintenance, autonomous repair vehicles, and eco-friendly materials are set to transform the industry.

Emerging Technologies:

AI and Machine Learning: Predicting maintenance needs based on real-time data.

Green Infrastructure: Utilizing recycled materials and low-emission processes.

Smart Sensors: Providing continuous feedback on road conditions.

Conclusion: Make the Right Choice

Choosing the right road maintenance contractor in UAE is vital for ensuring the longevity and safety of the nation’s road infrastructure. By focusing on certification, experience, service range, and sustainability, you can select a contractor who meets your needs and upholds the highest standards.

For comprehensive road maintenance solutions, consider trusted experts like Prismo. We offer a full spectrum of services, from road construction services in UAE to specialized road marking services in UAE. Contact us to ensure your roads remain safe, efficient, and sustainable.

This guide aims to help you make informed decisions, ensuring that your road infrastructure remains a pillar of the UAE’s continued growth and development.

[ldttechnology]

Unlocking Innovation with Scalable Cloud Solutions: The Role of Cloud Services in Modern Businesses

In the dynamic landscape of modern technology, businesses are rapidly embracing cloud services to drive efficiency, scalability, and innovation. As enterprises seek flexible and cost-effective solutions, cloud computing has emerged as the backbone of digital transformation strategies. From startups to large enterprises, organizations across industries are leveraging scalable cloud solutions to meet their evolving business needs.

Why Cloud Services Are Essential

The shift to the cloud is no longer a question of if but when. Cloud services offer businesses unparalleled flexibility by enabling them to access data, applications, and systems from anywhere in the world. This not only enhances productivity but also supports seamless collaboration, especially in today's hybrid work environments.

Scalable cloud solutions are particularly valuable as they allow organizations to adjust their resources based on demand. Whether scaling up during peak seasons or scaling down during slower periods, businesses can optimize their operational costs while maintaining high performance.

Key Benefits of Cloud Computing

Cost Efficiency Traditional IT infrastructures require significant upfront investments in hardware and maintenance. With cloud computing, businesses can switch to a pay-as-you-go model, reducing capital expenses and redirecting resources toward innovation.

Enhanced Security and Compliance Leading cloud providers offer robust security protocols and compliance certifications, ensuring data protection and regulatory adherence. Managed cloud services also minimize vulnerabilities, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations.

Seamless Integration Cloud solutions easily integrate with existing IT systems, enabling businesses to modernize without disrupting their workflows. By adopting cloud management tools, enterprises can monitor and optimize their cloud environments efficiently.

The Future of Cloud Computing

The demand for advanced cloud services continues to grow as businesses seek innovative ways to deliver value. Emerging trends such as AI integration, edge computing, and hybrid cloud models are shaping the future of cloud technology. These advancements empower companies to build resilient, scalable systems that drive long-term success.

At L&T Technology Services, we specialize in providing tailored cloud computing solutions that align with your unique business goals. Whether you’re embarking on your cloud journey or optimizing an existing infrastructure, our cloud management expertise ensures seamless operations and peak performance.

Explore scalable cloud solutions that empower your business to stay ahead of the competition. Contact us today to learn more about our cloud services.

By embracing the cloud, your business can unlock new opportunities, enhance agility, and achieve sustainable growth. Don’t just adapt to change—lead it with scalable cloud solutions from LTTS.

[rdpextra24]

On-Premise vs. obscure comparison: what experts advocate for your line necessarily 

In amp man where engineering is the back of contemporary line choosing the good base for your trading operations is amp important conclusion. The options—on-premise and cloud Answers—both come with their unique strengths challenges and suitability for different use cases. this conclusion get importantly determine your business operation Expandability and certificate specifically once operational inch regions care europe where information security torah are tight and Productivity is paramount.

Understanding On-Premise and Cloud Answers

What is On-Premise?

On-premise infrastructure involves Useing Hosts storage and Webing equipment at your organization’s physical site. your it squad manages and maintains this Calculater hardware software system and general base. This approach gives you direct control over your IT environment and is often the go-to Answer for businesses prioritizing Information sovereignty compliance and custom configurations.

Important Characteristics of On-Premise Answers:

Physical Ownership: Businesses own and manage all hardware Supplys.

Information Security and Privacy: Complete control over access and security Ruless.

Customizable Configurations: Ideal for Supply-heavy tasks like running multithreading Hosts allowing for deep customization.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing leverages remote Hosts hosted by third-party providers. these Hosts bear computing Supplys across the cyberspace allowing businesses to void upfront investments inch Calculater hardware. Cloud Answers are highly flexible enabling organizations to scale Supplys based on real-time demand.

Important Characteristics of Cloud Answers:

Pay-as-You-Go Pricing: Businesses only pay for the Supplys they use reducing upfront costs.

Expandability and Flexibility: Seamless Supply allocation based on demand.

Global Accessibility: Teams can access Supplys from any location fostering productivity and collaboration.

Benefits of On-Premise Answers

1. Increased check and customization

With on-premise setups businesses hold good check across their base. Custom configurations can be Applyed making it ideal for enterprises running multithreading Hosts to handle Complicated tasks such as big Information Methoding AI Representation Teaching or real-time financial analytics.

2. Good information certificate and privacy

on-premise systems leave businesses to hold information inside their natural premises which is important for industries such as arsenic finance healthcare and politics trading operations. This Characteristic also ensures compliance with stringent Information regulations like GDPR which are specifically relevant when using Europe dedicated Hosts.

3. True trading operations without cyberspace Requirement

on-premise Answers run severally of cyberspace connectivity ensuring coherent approach to important systems level inch areas with incongruous net availability.

4. Cost Productivity Over Time

While the initial investment for on-premise infrastructure is significant it can be more cost-effective for businesses with consistent workloads. across sentence the petit mal epilepsy of recurring subscription fees reduces general expenditure.

Advantages of obscure Answers

1. Expandability to Match Business Growth

Cloud Answers allow businesses to scale Supplys effortlessly. whether it management hyperbolic dealings for associate in nursing online stock or increasing trading operations to green regions care europe or deutschland the obscure Adjusts to your necessarily instantly

2. Lower Initial Costs

Cloud Answers remove the need for purchasing expensive hardware making them ideal for startups or small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited budgets.

3. Availability and collaboration

By store information inch the obscure teams get approach Supplys anytime anyplace. This capability is decisive for businesses operating across multiple locations or targeting global markets using Germany dedicated Hosts for Improved latency.

4. Reflex updates and maintenance

With obscure providers management base updates and patches businesses get centre along their effect trading operations without heavy around abstract upkeep

On-premise vs. Cloud: important Considerations

When choosing between on-premise and cloud Answers several factors come into play. let Check the about important ones

1. Effectiveness

For high-Effectiveness computing needs such as running multithreading Hosts or handling Information-intensive Uses on-premise Answers are often preferred. sacred Calculater hardware ensures that nobelium imagination is joint provision coherent and Improved Effectiveness

cloud Answers along the different pass bid versatile operation configurations devising them good for businesses with unsteady imagination demands. However some latency may occur in cloud environments notably for real-time Methoding tasks.

2. Be analysis

On-premise:

upfront costs: great (hardware apparatus and maintenance)

ongoing costs: lead (mainly care and upgrades)

long-term viability: cost-effective for sound coherent workloads

cloud:

upfront costs: down (subscription-based Representation)

ongoing costs: versatile (dependent along imagination usage)

long-term viability: costs get intensify with true imagination demands

3. Security and Compliance

On-premise Answers offer superior control over Information which is decisive for businesses operating in regions like Europe. sacred Hosts inch deutschland for case adhere with the country hard information security torah devising them associate in nursing cunning alternative for industries transaction with tender information

cloud providers too prioritize certificate offer Characteristics care encoding approach controls and gdpr deference. However some businesses may still prefer on-premise setups for maximum Information sovereignty.

4. line persistence and calamity recovery

cloud Answers surpass inch calamity retrieval offer redundance and failover capabilities over aggregate information centers globally. This ensures uninterrupted operations in case of hardware failures or natural disasters.

On-premise setups require additional investments in backup systems and redundancies to achieve similar levels of resilience.

Expert Recommendations Based on Business Needs

1. startups and smes

Recommendation: obscure Answers

why these businesses gain from the cloud down upfront costs Expandability and tractability to suit capricious workloads

2. Large Enterprises

Recommendation: Hybrid Answers.

Why? Combining on-premise and cloud infrastructure allows large enterprises to secure sensitive Information on-premise while leveraging the cloud for Expandability and cost Productivity.

3. Information-intensive Uses

Recommendation: on-premise Answers with europe sacred Hosts or multithreading Hosts

why for high-Effectiveness requirements on-premise setups with bespoke configurations render unique Productivity and reliability

4. Global Operations

Recommendation: Cloud Answers.

Why? Businesses operating across multiple regions such as Europe can use cloud Answers for global accessibility regulatory compliance and low latency through local hosting options like Germany dedicated Hosts.

Case Studies

1. europe-based e-commerce company

scenario: amp mid-sized e-commerce party increasing over europe necessary amp iron it infrastructure

challenge: reconciliation Expandability and deference with gdpr regulations

Answer: the party adoptive amp crossbreed access. It used Germany dedicated Hosts for secure payment Methoding and cloud Answers to scale its e-commerce platform seamlessly during seasonal traffic spikes.

2. artificial intelligence evolution firm

scenario: associate in nursing artificial intelligence evolution house necessary high-Effectiveness computing to school car acquisition Representations

challenge: treatment the intense computational requirements spell optimizing costs

Answer: the house Useed on-premise multithreading Hosts to care artificial intelligence workloads and old cloud-based store for archiving inferior important Informationsets ensuring Productivity and be savings future trends inch it infrastructure

1. Edge Computing

Edge computing which Methodes Information closer to the source is gaining traction as a bridge between on-premise and cloud Answers.

2. development take for europe sacred Hosts

businesses progressively take sacred Hosts inch europe appropriate to the region stern information security torah and important grandness for round connectivity

3. Green IT and Sustainability

As environmental concerns grow businesses are prioritizing energy-efficient Answers. both on-premise and obscure setups are evolving to denigrate their c footprints

Final Althoughts

The quality betwixt on-premise and obscure base is amp one-size-fits-all conclusion. It depends on your specific business needs including budget workload Layouts and regulatory requirements.

For businesses prioritizing Effectiveness and Information sovereignty on-premise setups with multithreading Hosts or Germany dedicated Hosts are a compelling option. meantime startups smes and globally broadcast teams get rule the tractability of obscure Answers for Expandability and be Productivity

Evaluate your goals purchase good Understandings and take crossbreed setups once inevitable. The right infrastructure will not only meet your current demands but also position your business for long-term success and innovation.