Ferretly, an innovative AI-driven startup specializing in social media vetting, has just closed a $2.5 million seed funding round. This investment will fuel the launch of their groundbreaking platform designed to enhance the screening of election personnel. Founded in 2019, Ferretly uses advanced AI technology to sift through social media and publicly available online data, uncovering potential risks and behaviors that traditional background checks might miss.
The brainchild of Darrin Lipscomb, who has previously founded and sold successful software startups like Pipestream and Avrio, Ferretly aims to help hiring managers ensure that new hires align with their company's values. "It’s really a question of character," Lipscomb explains. "We look beyond traditional background checks to assess an individual’s digital persona, providing unique insights into their character."
With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, Ferretly's new Election Personnel Screening Platform is poised to make a significant impact. The platform is designed to evaluate candidates, poll workers, canvassers, and other election staff for potential risks such as inflammatory rhetoric, hate speech, and connections to extremist groups. It also includes advanced image classification tools to detect offensive gestures and extremist symbols.
Ferretly’s platform doesn’t just stop at social media; it also scans web pages and news articles to gather comprehensive insights. The result is a detailed report summarizing risk indicators, flagged content, and behavioral patterns, allowing hiring managers to make informed decisions quickly.
As Ferretly expands its capabilities, it’s also gaining traction with notable clients across various sectors, including Deloitte, Blizzard Entertainment, and Paramount Global. The startup's tools are employed by nonprofits, public sector organizations, and political parties worldwide.
The recent funding will support marketing initiatives and further research and development. Led by David Dickerson, Chairman and Founder of Accurate Background, the investment underscores the growing importance of digital vetting in today’s interconnected world.
