TRUSTPILOT has announced the creation of a new global R&D and Innovation Hub in Edinburgh to develop new, world-leading technology that proactively tackles the behaviour that threatens trust online.
The Hub, supported through a £1.8m R&D grant from Scottish Enterprise, aims to initially create 30 new advanced data science jobs and new local partnerships over the next three years.
Peter Holten Muhlmann, Trustpilot founder and CEO, said, “The crisis of trust in society, driven to a great degree by mistrust in information online, has become a defining issue of our times.
“With the assistance of Scottish Enterprise, our new global R&D Hub will become the epi-centre for accelerating our already leading efforts to tackle abuse and fraud related to consumer information, particularly consumer reviews.
“The technology scene in Edinburgh is thriving, with exceptional talent and an enviable network that will help us to meet our ambitions. We’re delighted to bring our global efforts to Scotland.”
One such initiative to roll out in the coming months will be the introduction of new ‘Fraud Fingerprinting’ technology adding additional behavioural data points to those Trustpilot already collects and combining these with advanced data modelling to detect and map fraudulent online activity.
Trustpilot’s new office will be spearheaded by two of Trustpilot’s executive team, Carolyn Jameson, chief legal and policy officer and Steve Garland, chief technology and information officer.
Carolyn said: “We take the responsibility to protect both consumers and businesses from fraudulent behaviour very seriously, and believe strong detection and enforcement measures are fundamental to our open review platform.
“Creating a fair and open environment where consumers’ voices can be heard and businesses are able to earn greater trust in their products and services requires the best thinking and expertise.
“We believe Edinburgh is the top place to find it, and I’m really excited to be a part of this initiative.”
Ivan McKee, minister for Trade, Investment and Innovation, said: “I am delighted that Trustpilot has chosen to base its new global R&D and Innovation Hub in Edinburgh where it will develop world-leading technology.
“Over the coming months and years, as we recover from the economic impact of the global coronavirus pandemic, it is important that we look to the future and encourage new and innovative businesses to establish bases in Scotland.
“This grant from Scottish Enterprise will help secure new highly skilled jobs in Scotland, bring new investment into our leading digital and technology sector and further enhance Edinburgh’s reputation as a global technology centre.”
