Consumer Spending on iOS Apps Increases by 35%

There has been a shift in the priorities of mobile app marketers as of late, with them trying to keep users loyal instead of focusing on exponential growth. This has led to a dramatic increase in spending on app installs on both the App Store as well as the Google Play Store. Android apps that require subscriptions saw a 41% decline in installs, with iOS apps of a similar variety experiencing a 30% decrease in the same period.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that the budgets that used to go towards user acquisitions are now being diverted towards media re-engagement. A 48% increase in those budgets have been noted, so the decline in the overall market might not be quite what it seems.

It turns out that consumer spending on apps is growing at an enormous rate. iOS users are spending 35% more within apps than they used to. As for Android, its users are spending 22% more, and while that might be well short of iOS, it still represents some positive momentum for the industry overall.

Another area that saw an impressive rate of growth was that of install to subscription conversions. Android actually surpassed iOS in this metric, with the former seeing a 20% conversion rate as compared to just 15% for the latter with all things having been considered and taken into account.

Apple’s App Tracking Transparency protocol was criticized for being a death knell for the mobile app marketing industry. In spite of the fact that this is the case, 59% of iOS users are opting into utility apps, 52% are doing so for photo and video apps, 51% for gaming and 50% for finance apps.

This goes to show that users are willing to share data so long as there is transparency. Apple may have pushed the industry towards a more ethical mode of operation, one that deals over the table instead of under it and obtains data in an ethical manner rather than getting it without asking for consent from the consumer beforehand.

H/T: Liftoff / Appsflyer

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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

Brands Must Balance AI With Ethics, Here’s How

As AI continues to rise, brands are starting to adopt it left, right and center. Generative AI has already had an enormous impact on the world around us because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up levelling up productivity and output. In spite of the fact that this is the case, there has been a 26% uptick in fears surrounding AI in the US alone, and this raises the question: how can brands use AI ethically?

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that transparency is quickly becoming the name of the game so to speak. Generative AI mines massive quantities of data, and this might concern consumers about how their own data might end up in the wrong hands.

There is still a long way to go before governments can agree upon widespread regulations for AI. Until that time comes, brands must play their part in maintaining a reasonable code of ethics with all things having been considered and taken into account.

The key to creating an air of security for the data that is being used to fuel generative AI such as ChatGPT is to train staff on how to use it properly. It turns out that as many as 71% of workers are willing to undergo this type of training. Doing so can leave them better equipped to manage said data than might have been the case otherwise.

Another major concern when it comes to AI is how quickly it is growing. Facebook took around four and a half years to reach the hundred million user mark, but ChatGPT achieved the same feat in just 2 months. Such an exponential growth rate has led to a rise in fake news. Just 29% of consumers stated that they trust the news that they see, since there is always a chance that it is a product of generative AI.

Overall, 64% of consumers indicated that they are worried about the various unethical ways in which generative AI might be utilized. Deepfakes is just one of the many examples of how AI can be used maliciously, since it blurs the line between fiction and reality to the point where they may even become indistinguishable in the near future.

Furthermore, AI is by no means free of bias. The biases present within the mental framework of AI coders is present within the AI itself. Not to mention, the data that is being mined is also full of biases and human error, so it is imperative that brands factor this into the equation moving forward.

If brands want to use AI to obtain information, they need to fact check this information multiple times. ChatGPT and other Large Language Models are prone to hallucinations, which is when they put out information that is entirely false.

Providing this fake information without verifying it first could create a climate of distrust between brands and their customers. Finally, 25% of workers are worried they might lose their jobs to AI, and this is yet another concern that must be addressed without delay lest the implications become ever more dire.

Source: Global Web Index

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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

60 Percent of Parents Say They Use Their Smartphones More Than Their Kids

Excessive screen time has turned into a real problem because of the fact that this is the sort of thing that could potentially end up causing mental health issues for children. Adults are not exactly exempt from such ill effects, and it turns out that a majority of parents might be using their smartphones more than their own children.

This data is coming out of a survey commissioned by Campspot and conducted by OnePoll, and asked questions of around 2000 parents. With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that parents spend approximately 5 hours per day on their devices. 60% of the people that responded to this survey also mentioned that they want to cut down on screen time so that they can spend more time with their kids than might have been the case otherwise.

79% of parents admitted that spending quality time with their kids can become more meaningful in the absence of electronic devices. This is unsurprising, considering that 80% of parents own at least three devices, whereas 81% of children own two or more with all things having been considered and taken into account.

Parents are using a variety of methods to reduce screen time and use those extra hours to bond with their children. 52% are using the common sense approach of limiting how much them and their children use phones or any other devices on a day to day basis.

63% are going so far as to make certain parts of their home device free, which might force them and their kids to do something else for a change. What’s more, 74% are setting time limits after which smartphone usage will be banned, and 76% are attempting to make their kids go outside more often than they currently do.

Finding activities over the summer is also turning into a popular choice, with 59% going for hikes, and 58% apiece going on picnics and spending the day at water parks or amusement parks that don’t involve any type of technology to an extent.

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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World

The Alarming State of Email Security Worldwide

In today's digital age, cybercriminals continue to employ sophisticated tactics to exploit vulnerabilities and deceive unsuspecting individuals and organizations. Among these tactics, phishing attacks remain a prevalent and menacing threat. Cybercriminals can easily impersonate trusted entities, like banks, corporations, or even government agencies, to deceive individuals into falling prey to their schemes. The consequences of such attacks can be severe, leading to financial loss, data breaches, and reputational damage. To combat this growing menace, email security protocols like DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) have emerged as a potent defense mechanism.

In a recent study conducted by cybersecurity researchers at SendLayer, the state of email security was evaluated across various sectors and regions. The findings were alarming, shedding light on the inadequate implementation of DMARC, leaving millions vulnerable to phishing attacks. This article will delve into the key findings of the research, highlighting the sectors and regions with the most significant gaps in email security and emphasizing the need for improved protection measures.

Key Findings: An Overview of the State of Email Security Worldwide

Banking Domains Remain Vulnerable:

The study revealed that even sensitive sectors, such as banking, exhibit dangerously low levels of DMARC adoption. 41% of the banking institutions worldwide lacked DMARC protocols, leaving countless customers exposed to financial fraud carried out through fake emails. While the banking industry had higher DMARC coverage compared to other sectors, it still falls far from adequate protection. With scammers easily imitating unprotected banking domains, customers are at risk of falling victim to fraudulent money transfers.

Other sectors displayed even worse DMARC coverage, with the graphic design industry at the bottom, where a staggering 91% of domains lacked DMARC protection. It is essential for organizations, regardless of their sector, to prioritize email security to safeguard both their reputation and their clients' trust.

Global Companies Negligent in Domain Protection:

Among the largest global companies outside the Fortune 500, 66% of domains had no DMARC protocols in place. Even among companies that had DMARC enabled, over half implemented a 'none' policy, rendering them vulnerable to phishing attacks carried out in their name. These findings underscore the lack of commitment to robust email security measures, which can lead to severe reputational and financial consequences for companies.

Government Domains Dangerously Susceptible Worldwide:

The study highlighted the poor commitment of government agencies worldwide to implement DMARC protocols. 65% of government domains from 198 countries had no DMARC protection, making phishing attacks impersonating government entities particularly dangerous. With scammers leveraging the trust associated with government agencies, individuals are more likely to fall victim to these deceptive emails.

Even among government domains with DMARC protocols, a significant 36% were using a 'none' policy, further exposing citizens to email fraud. These findings emphasize the need for governments to establish strong official policies mandating DMARC adoption to combat phishing and protect their citizens.

Fortune 500 Companies Show Mixed Commitment:

The Fortune 500, despite boasting the highest collective DMARC coverage at 88%, still had 12% of domains with no DMARC protection. This leaves a significant number of customers vulnerable to phishing attacks. Moreover, 40% of F500 companies with DMARC records used the 'none' policy, which allows hackers to impersonate their domains and send phishing emails to customers.

Oceania Companies Lead the Way:

In terms of regional DMARC adoption, companies from Oceania exhibited the most impressive coverage rates, followed by Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. Countries like Denmark and the US had the highest DMARC coverage among individual nations. However, the overall adoption rates, even in leading nations, hovered around 59%, leaving ample room for improvement.

Conclusion: Safeguarding the Future of Email Security

Phishing attacks have persisted as one of the most significant cybersecurity threats globally, causing considerable harm to individuals, organizations, and governments alike. The study's findings expose the alarming gaps in DMARC adoption, leaving millions susceptible to email fraud. Implementing DMARC and other robust email security measures should be a top priority for institutions across all sectors and regions.

As we navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape, embracing comprehensive email security measures becomes a shared responsibility. By prioritizing email security, we can collectively safeguard the future of digital communication and protect individuals and organizations from falling victim to phishing attacks.

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by Web Desk via Digital Information World

The Chronicles of X: The Rise of Musk's Everything App

One app, X, has been on a roller-coaster ride of controversy, rivalry, and evolution in a world dominated by social media, where bird-themed platforms used to reign supreme. X, founded by Elon Musk, is making news again, with record-high monthly active usage against increased competition from Threads, a Twitter clone.

Elon Musk, the mysterious owner of X, recently posted a graphic showing the app's monthly subscribers (crossing the 540 million mark). But wait a minute, the chart is missing an important component - the X-axis (how ironic!). Nonetheless, Musk asserts confidently that X is prospering amid fears of a larger user exodus from the platform. Musk is redesigning the app as part of his goal, progressively deleting any 'Twitter' and bird allusions. The X icon appears on mobile, indicating that the app is transforming into Musk's "everything app."

Musk's lofty claims, though, have not persuaded everyone. Critics have seen a trend in Musk's reactions to bad news cycles regarding the app. Whenever there are inquiries about usage or worries about the company's success, Musk firmly presents data indicating that X is still growing. It's almost like watching a movie where the hero always wins, no matter what.

But that's not all: X has also created a creator ad revenue-sharing scheme to let high-engagement users earn money from their posts based on the advertisements that appear in responses. What's the catch? The standards are stringent, including at least 15 million impressions on cumulative posts in the previous three months, 500 followers, and membership in Blue or Verified Organizations. Nobody said becoming an ad-revenue-earning creative would be simple!

This shift toward revenue may encourage users to publish information that elicits strong emotions like wrath and happiness, which are known to elicit more responses. Consider a digital battleground where users compete for engagement to generate ad income. Will this PvP nature align with Elon's vision for the app? Only time will tell.

While many creators are delighted about making money from their work, it is unclear how long this revenue stream will last. Elon Musk has already pledged to expand the program to include ad exposure on user profiles, but it remains to be seen if this will be a game changer or simply another pipe dream.

Meanwhile, the app's ad display has been somewhat tweaked, with the customary 'Promoted' tags replaced with a smaller 'Ad' label at the top right of sponsored posts. While this may make commercials appear more natural in-stream, it may also draw the ire of authorities. The FTC requires clear and visible indications for advertisements, and X's new strategy may not pass the scrutiny test fully.

As the X tale progresses, it's evident that Elon Musk is keen to mold the app into his vision of an all-encompassing platform. While some of his statements and maneuvers have been questioned, there is no disputing that X is a force to be reckoned with in the social media environment.

So, whether you're a creator looking for fame and fortune, an advertiser navigating the shifting ad displays, or just a regular user watching the saga, one thing is certain: the Chronicles of X will continue to entertain and surprise us with each new twist in this epic journey of digital ambition. Keep an eye out!

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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

AI-Generated Reviews Go Bonkers: Google Cracks Down with Humor and Steel

This is the story of Google's digital kingdom: search engines roamed, internet wizards performed their magic, and a new policy was declared! Prepare to be surprised, dear readers, because Google has exciting news concerning those pesky AI-generated reviews.

In the age of online shopping, where individuals post evaluations on the newest gadgets and gizmos they buy, some devious minds felt they could outwit the system by using AI-generated flattery and rants. Unfortunately, Google, the enlightened boss of the Merchant Center, had other ideas.

With a hearty smile and a raised eyebrow, Google said that such evaluations generated by automated programs or AI magic would be classified as spam! Oh, the hubris of robots believing they can fool Google's watchful eye.

Don't get Google mixed up. They all favor AI's ability to generate meaningful and informative material that helps users. Regarding reviews, though, Google desired the touch of a human hand, or at the very least, a human brain that had used the evaluated thing.

Can you picture a world in which the latest superhero film was reviewed by a robot that had never seen a blockbuster before? That's correct; it'd be like watching a movie without popcorn—a disaster!

In an unexpected turn of events, Google also revised several other restrictions. No more spammy, illogical, or hazardous stuff! Say no to phone numbers, email addresses, and URLs creeping into reviews. And if you thought sharing personal and confidential information was cool, Google is stopping that too!

To keep their shopping empire squeaky clean, Google stepped down on reviews that contained harsh language, violence, or slanderousness. Huzzah! Finally, we can go shopping without having to wade through a sea of virtual insults.

But hold on, there's more! Google would punish reviews as genuine as a unicorn in a sci-fi film. There will be no more shady marketing, pranks, or purchased reviews! Google, like a wise old sage, wants honest and fair input.

How about illegal content? Google, on the other hand, was not having it. There will be no prescription medication sales without a prescription, no illegal firearms, and no copyright infringement. You know how Google feels about copyright – it's like the ultimate movie villain!

In an unexpected turn, Google partnered with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and law enforcement to combat sexually explicit content. There is no longer space in the kingdom for such evil!

Google established the rule of law with style and wit. They weren't just waving a magic wand of algorithms; they had professional wizards with an eye for detail who ensured the regulations were implemented with elegance and substance. Machine learning and human intelligence worked like a superhero team to combat internet crime!

So, dear readers, the next time you shop online, be wary of AI-generated evaluations that try to get past Google's diligent guardians. Remember that Google wants authentic experiences, honest views, and a free Shopping kingdom from spam and trickery!

As the sun sets on this story, we bid farewell to the age of AI-generated mayhem. Google's policies are strong, providing everyone a safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable shopping experience. Huzzah to the algorithms' wisdom, and huzzah to Google for keeping the digital realm safe and secure!

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by Rubah Usman via Digital Information World

95% of People Are Concerned About Medical Data Leaks

With the quantity of digital information being collected increasing by unprecedented levels each and every year, protecting this information has become harder than ever before. What’s more, the presence of fast paced exchanges of this information make it even more prone to risk than might have been the case otherwise.

With all of that having been said and now out of the way, it is important to note that as many as 95% of patients are concerned that their personal medical data might end up getting leaked without their knowledge. Major tech companies claim that they have taken steps to keep the data safe, but in spite of the fact that this is the case, consumers don’t seem to trust them very much.

Around 38% of consumers stated that they don’t trust Big Tech at all, with 27% saying that they have a moderate to slight distrust of them. Just 14% of people mentioned that they place complete trust in Big Tech, which might indicate that they don’t want these tech corporations having so much control over medical data.

This data comes from a survey conducted by Atlas VPN, and it revealed that 28% of customers are extremely concerned about leaks. 42% stated that they have moderate concerns that a leak could leave their medical data in the wrong hands, with 25% showing slight concern with all things having been considered and taken into account.

It bears mentioning that even the smallest type of vulnerability could have drastic consequences in this regard. There are few types of data that are considered more private, sensitive and valuable than data pertaining to medical histories and the like, and consumers clearly don’t trust Big Tech to do the right thing with this information.

That is not surprising given how many controversies these companies have been embroiled in in the past, with many using this data without informing consumers. The high proportion of leaks also makes a case for these companies not being trustworthy, since it can be hard to rely on them after a breach occurs especially one involving data of this variety.

H/T: Health Gorilla / The State of Patient Privacy

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by Zia Muhammad via Digital Information World