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Proof.com Launches a Digital Identity Solution to Combat AI Deep Fakes
Identity-verification platform provider Proof.com has launched Certify, a product intended to combat falsification of signatures created through the use of AI. With Certify, users can cryptographically authorize a digital signature on any type of content, such as wire instructions, tax returns, and legal agreements, using a verified legal identity. Proof.com, formerly Notarize, developed the application to combat the growing problem of false content deepfakes, as well as digital impersonation fueled by generative AI.
Tavant Unveils AI-Powered Mortgage Origination Suite TOUCHLESS
Tavant unveiled its TOUCHLESS AI Mortgage Origination Suite that offers a full suite of modules to upgrade existing LOS and POS via Agentic AI assistants, AI-powered document analysis, AI-assisted underwriting, and an Agentic AI architecture that dynamically personalizes workflows, loan products, and programs.
Spiral Partners with Mid-Hudson Valley FCU
Mid-Hudson Valley FCU has selected Spiral to deliver personalized digital experiences to its members. With this platform, members can save money through gamified experiences such as Auto-Savings, goal tracking and more.
FICO Teams with Plaid to Include Cash Flow Data in Credit Scoring
FICO has partnered with open-banking platform Plaid to develop the UltraFICO score, a credit score that includes real-time cash-flow data from Plaid. The UltraFICO score will weigh a consumer’s historical and current information about money flowing into and out of their transaction accounts, such as checking, savings, and money market accounts. Lenders can use the UltraFICO score in conjunction with traditional FICO credit scoring models to better determine whether to approve or decline a loan application, FICO says.
LexisNexis Risk Solutions Releases Enhanced LexisNexis IDVerse to Advance Fraud Prevention
LexisNexis Risk Solutions announced an enhanced version of LexisNexis IDVerse that uses proprietary AI models to help organizations detect sophisticated fraud, including deepfakes and synthetic identities, while enabling faster and more secure onboarding for trusted users.
Member Loyalty Group Introduces AI-Powered Solution
Member Loyalty Group announced the availability of a new generative AI-powered solution that enables credit unions to respond to member feedback more efficiently, consistently, and with a personal touch. The new platform leverages generative AI to draft personalized messages based on the content and score of each survey response. CUs can adjust the tool to align with their communication standards, tone and best practices, including parameters likes reading level and phrases to avoid.
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New Intel Xeon 6 CPUs Unveiled
Intel has unveiled three additions to its Intel Xeon 6 series of central processing units (CPUs) that are designed to manage graphics processing unit (GPU) powered systems. One, the Xeon 6776P, is currently serving as the host CPU for Nvidia’s DGX B300, its latest generation of AI-accelerated systems. The chip giant says that their Xeon 6776P processor “plays a vital role in managing, orchestrating and supporting the AI-accelerated system.
What Is an AI PC? the Power of Artificial Intelligence Locally
Unlike traditional computers, an AI PC comes with AI capabilities built in by design. AI runs locally, right on the machine, allowing it to essentially learn, adapt, reason and problem-solve without necessarily having to connect to the cloud or even the Internet. This greatly increases the performance, efficiency, and security of computing while enhancing the user experience. This article goes on to discuss the myriad of ways that AI PCs differ from traditional PCs.
IBM Pumps-up AI, Security for New Power11 Server Family
IBM has rolled out a family of Power11 servers and chips which feature a variety of new models, from the high-end flagship IBM Power E1122 system to the entry level Power S1012. All models are designed to help organizations grow AI infrastructure, enable LLM-driven apps, and extend IBM’s hybrid cloud ecosystem with tighter integration with Red Hat and watsonx. The IBM Power11 family of servers also promise guaranteed uptime and security.
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Six Gen AI Use Cases That Move the Needle for Small FIs
This article highlights 6 powerful FI-centered use cases for generative AI: i) Fraud Detection; ii) Customer Service Automation; iii) Personalized Marketing; iv) Document and data processing; v) Operational Analytics; and vi) Knowledge bases.
10 Steps CUs Should Take Now to Prepare for AI Adoption
AI is becoming a valuable tool as credit unions adopt more advanced technology to serve their members and stay competitive. This article provides a 10-step checklist which offers a framework to help CUs prepare for AI an implementation.
Finzly’s Agentic Galaxy Offers Deployable AI Agents for Payments
Finzly launched Agentic Galaxy, a new addition to its Galaxy suite that embeds deployable AI agents into the core of payments and operations. The platform’s built-in AI modules helps automate payment processing, enhance compliance through human-in-the-loop oversight, and reduce complexity by integrating intelligence natively rather than bolting it on.
Microsoft Unveils Agent 365 to Help IT Manage AI ‘Agent Sprawl’
Microsoft’s Agent 365 (A365) is a new “control plane” that lets customers deploy and govern the use of agents. Accessed via the Microsoft 365 admin console, A365 allows IT staffers to manage which agents employees can use and restrict the data and resources available to those agents. A365 builds on three existing Microsoft tools: Defender, Entra, and Purview. Microsoft Defender helps detect and block known and emerging threats that target agents, while Purview, Microsoft’s data governance tool, is used to prevent agents from accessing — and then leaking — sensitive data.
The Age of Agentic AI: Why Small Business Lending Needs More than Just Automation: By Utsav Shah
The author states that unlike previous attempts at automating the underwriting process, agentic AI transforms the entire journey, with agents deployed to work together to automate processes in minutes, rather than days. This allows both lender and borrower to take action based on the results faster. He goes on to explain how how these systems can unlock a more inclusive and highly automated lending infrastructure.
UserLock IAM for Active Directory
UserLock brings modern identity and access management (IAM) to Active Directory, adding granular multi-factor authentication (MFA), contextual access controls, single sign-on (SSO) and real-time session management. It helps AD-first teams secure logons and govern access to network and SaaS resources without overhauling their identity stack. This article takes a deep dive into how UserLock works.
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How Can Card Readers Combat Skimming?
Card readers are a critical component in ATMs. Despite the rise of contactless and mobile withdrawals, many consumers still rely on card readers. Despite advancements in card reader security, skimming still costs FIs and consumers more than $1 billion annually, according to data from the FBI. This article looks at 3 pressing skimming questions: 1) How have card readers changed? 2) How has skimming changed? and 3) Can skimming be prevented?
U.S. Payments Modernization Is Taking a Toll on Cash
Services like FedNow and RTP, both real-time payment networks, are chipping away at cash reliance, finds a new report from Deloitte. Automated clearing house transactions are another factor, as is agentic artificial-intelligence commerce.
Remote Hosting Will Transform ATMs
The author argues that single-function ATMs are on a similar trajectory as outdated tech like pagers, telephone answering machines, fax machines, handheld calculators and portable MP3 players. He claims that ATMs no longer need to have enormous memory or powerful processing capacity to support a wide range of applications. He makes the case for cloud-based remote hosting which he says can enable a more affordable terminal to deliver a functionally unlimited number of potential services.
85% of Americans Want Laws Requiring Businesses to Accept Cash
New national survey results reveal that more than 85% of Americans want laws requiring businesses to accept cash, with 84% of those surveyed opposing a fully cashless society. The Siena–PCC survey results of 5,570 residents across the US, is representative of the broader US population, and the survey results reinforce that even as digital payment methods were available, consumers still wanted—and needed—cash as a reliable, private, and resilient payment option.
Diebold Nixdorf Launches DN Series 300, 350
Diebold Nixdorf has introduced its DN Series 300 and 350 ATMs. These are powered by the DM7V dispensing module for intelligent cash handling, according to the firm. These machines have a shared cassette infrastructure with its dispensers and recyclers to improve cash replenishment cycles and operational overhead. The dispensing modules in particular can support up to 14,000 notes and eight denominations in a dual-cassette. The ATMs are powered by DN AllConnect Services and AllConnect Data Engine for real-time monitoring, analytics, predictive maintenance scheduling and cash forecasting.
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Convenience Drives More than Half of Digital Wallet Use
Budget-conscious consumers reach for debit cards to maintain financial discipline, while the allure of rewards continues to fuel credit card use, according to a PYMNTS Intelligence report. Meanwhile, digital wallets emerged as a strong contender for online convenience, with 55% of users citing them as their payment method of choice, higher than debit or credit cards.
QR Codes Make a Splash in the Real Time Payments Pool
QR code payments have taken a big step towards becoming not only a mainstream payment option but also one that can accelerate the adoption of real-time payments. Proponents say that QR codes offer a modern payment option where FIs can control the experience, reduce costs, and deliver funds instantly. Enabling consumers to scan a QR code and pay using their existing banking apps provides frictionless entry into instant payments as there is no need for consumers to download a new app or sign up for a wallet, observers say.
Wi-Fi 8 Is Coming — and It's Going to Make AI a Lot Faster
While it seems like Wi-Fi 7 was just released (it was actually officially released in Jan. 2024), work is already extensively underway on its successor Wi-Fi 8. This article looks at many of the new features and functionality in Wi-Fi 8, including how it will help with the increasing flow on AI trafffic.
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New iDenfy Solution Brings Instant License Checks to KYC Workflows
iDenfy announced its latest software solution that connects to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) data source into its Know Your Customer (KYC) verification platform. Combined with other KYC tools, such as an additional license check option, FIs will now have a new workflow option that instantly verifies any U.S. citizen's driver’s license faster.
Cisco Initiative Targets Device Security
Cisco announced a security initiative that will push customers to update or replace aging infrastructure components, such as routers, switches and firewalls, as well as discourage them from using any insecure features. Called Resilient Infrastructure, the plan calls for Cisco to strengthen network security by increasing default protections, removing insecure legacy features, and introducing new capabilities that reduce the attack surface and enable better threat detection and response.
3 of Fintech’s Newest Security Features Every FI Should Be Standardizing
Fraud is growing more sophisticated and has become supercharged by generative AI, deepfakes, and increasingly organized social-engineering networks. This article looks at 3 different fintech security options: 1) Revolut’s geolocation restrictions; 2) Monzo’s and Robinhood’s in-app scam warnings and 3) iProov’s deepfake-resistant biometric verification.
LLMs Can Assist with Vulnerability Scoring, but Context Still Matters
Every new vulnerability disclosure adds another decision point for already stretched security teams. A recent study explores whether LLMs can take on part of that burden by scoring vulnerabilities at scale. While the results show promise in specific areas, consistent weaknesses continue to hold back fully automated scoring. This article delves into what data makes AI more useful for vulnerability scoring.
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Technology and Marketing
How AI Is Quietly Transforming CU Marketing
The author posits that the advent of big data, AI, and marketing automation is leveling the marketing playing field, enabling CUs to enhance their credit marketing strategies and compete effectively with larger counterparts. He points out that where traditional segmentation might group members by basic credit score bands or geographic regions, AI-driven approaches can identify nuanced behavioral patterns and predict individual likelihood to respond to specific offers. He goes on to discuss how AI and Big Data will continue to evolve and redefine the future of CU marketing.
Plumery Unveils Cashback Management Capability to Help FIs Boost Engagement
Digital banking experience platform Plumery launched its Cashback Management capability. They say that the new offering will empower FIs to build and run personalized, real-time rewards in weeks. They claim that their new platform enables FIs to launch modern cashback programs—from instant or scheduled credits to AI-driven reward groups—while maintaining control of compliance, costs, and the user experience.
Mastercard Access Pass Helps Enable Partners to Forge Deeper Connections with Consumers
Mastercard launched Mastercard Access Pass, a new program that empowers issuers and partners to deliver tailored experiences and exclusive perks. Mastercard Access Pass overlays digital designs and special benefits onto existing debit, credit, or prepaid cards with the click of a button, allowing users to keep their current cards and benefits while adding a new layer of perks. With just a few taps, cardholders can add unique card art to their digital wallet within minutes and instantly access special benefits.
5 Marketing Resolutions Every CU Should Make for 2026
This article presents 5 marketing resolutions that the author deeply believes every CU should make (and actually keep) in 2026. Those 5 are: Resolution #1: “We will stop funding anything we can’t track.”; Resolution #2: “We will pick a real target market (and admit who we’re not for).”; Resolution #3: “We will go where Gen Z actually is, not where our board feels comfortable.”; Resolution #4: “We will prioritize high-trust channels over the cheapest CPMs.”; and Resolution #5: “We will treat marketing as a growth engine, not just an expense line.”
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As Open Banking Evolves, FIs Can Keep Building for Data Resilience
The author states that even as Section 1033 undergoes revision, FIs should continue to build resilient data practices. She insists that portability, transparency, and governance are crucial for long-term growth and regulatory readiness.
Visa Unveils New Global Stablecoins Advisory Practice
Visa announced the launch of its Stablecoins Advisory Practice. The new value-added service offering by Visa Consulting & Analytics provides Stablecoin training and market trend programs, including a new Visa University course. It also delivers Stablecoin strategy development and market entry planning, use case sizing and go-to-market planning, and technology enablement for stablecoins integration.
Visa Predicts Agentic Commerce Will Be Mainstream in 2026
Visa announced that hundreds of artificial intelligence-based and agent-initiated transactions have been completed in collaboration with partners, a milestone the card network says is a signal that agentic commerce is poised to become mainstream in 2026. The card giant points to recent research it conducted that reveals 47% of shoppers in the US now use AI tools for at least one shopping task, such as price comparisons or personalized recommendations.
How to Avoid These 9 Common CU Website Pitfalls
The author says that CU websites often have issues such as being difficult to navigate, cluttered with promos, hard to read on mobile, generic looking, inaccurate, visually outdated, or some combination thereof. To combat these issues and others, she has developed a list of 9 common pitfalls all CU marketers should take note of: 1. Don’t try to look (or sound) like a bank; 2. Don’t be clever or catchy in your website navigation; 3. Make your site “mobile-optimized,” not “mobile-first”; 4. Go beyond compliance when it comes to accessibility; 5. Be strategic about SEO; 6. Be careful with proprietary CMS and hosting platforms; 7. Don’t lock yourself into multi-year contracts; 8. Structure your pages with a content-first mindset; and 9. Don’t use generic stock photos.
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Are AI Browsers Worth the Security Risk? Why Experts Are Worried
OpenAI has released ChatGPT Atlas, described as "the browser with ChatGPT built in." However, Atlas -- alongside other AI-based browsers -- raises security and privacy questions that need to be answered. Prompt injections have become an area of real concern to cybersecurity experts, as well as trust - whether or not you allow a browser - and LLM - to access and handle your personal data. Another emerging issue is surveillance. While many security experts recommend that you use a secure browser for your search queries so your activities aren't logged or tracked, AI browsers, by design, add context to your search queries through follow-up questions, web page visit logs and analysis, prompts, and more.
CIOs Shift from ‘Cloud-First’ to ‘Cloud-Smart’
Common wisdom has long held that a cloud-first approach will gain CIOs benefits such as agility, scalability, and cost-efficiency for their applications and workloads. While cloud remains most IT leaders’ preferred infrastructure platform, many are rethinking their cloud strategies, pivoting from cloud-first to “cloud-smart” by choosing the best approach for specific workloads rather than just moving everything off-premises and prioritizing cloud over other considerations for new initiatives. This article takes a deep dive into this Cloud-Smart trend.
Keep AI Browsers out of Your Enterprise, Warns Gartner
AI browsers including Perplexity Comet and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Atlas present security risks that cannot be adequately mitigated, and organizations should prevent employees from using them, according to Gartner. “Gartner strongly recommends that organizations block all AI browsers for the foreseeable future because of the cybersecurity risks,” according to Gartner analysts. Concerns were raised immediately after the launch of ChatGPT Atlas about the threat posed by AI browsers, with analysts pointing to prompt injection vulnerabilities and data security concerns.
Astra Introduces Offensive-Grade Cloud Vulnerability Scanner
Astra Security announced the launch of its Cloud Vulnerability Scanner, a new solution designed to help organizations continuously maintain validated cloud security. The company notes that quarterly scans cannot keep up with the high rate of cloud changes, which is why 73% of cloud breaches are caused by misconfigurations rather than advanced exploits.
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Rethinking Contact Center Strategy in a Rapidly Changing Landscape
The author is convinced that today’s members expect empathy, speed, and personalization—and they expect it across every channel. She says that they want their credit unions to understand their unique circumstances, respond quickly, and offer tailored solutions. To address these needs she covers their implications for contact center design in the article.
How to Become a Better Contact Center Coach
This article looks at 3 reasons why coaching programs fail and how to a combat them. The 3 are: 1) We’re too reactive; 2) We’re ad hoc and inconsistent; and 3) We measure activity, not outcomes.
Red Rocks CU Introduces Roxie, a New Virtual Assistant
Red Rocks Credit Union has launched Roxie, a new virtual assistant that brings members faster, friendlier and more modern support. The launch positions Red Rocks among the earliest credit unions in the country to deploy a fully conversational, voice-first assistant built on advanced, agentic AI. The Colorado-based CU expects the technology to manage more than half of routine inquiries by the end of the year. Red Rocks built Roxie in partnership with interface.ai, and says that the platform helps enable natural conversation, secure authentication and fast information retrieval.
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