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Weekly Marketing Rundown - May 22, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including the latest update regarding ChatGPT Ads, a huge Windows Security Update, changes to Canva, Gemini Agents and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Navigating the Early Stages of ChatGPT Self-Serve Ads OpenAI has recently launched a self-serve advertising platform for ChatGPT that is highly basic compared to Meta's advanced ecosystem. The early-stage tool features limited objectives, small ad creatives, and delayed data reporting, giving it a true beta-product feel. For Mission Teams Kavanah Media has been granted access to the platform and hopes to begin experimenting with it shortly. This platform could provide another avenue for delivering gospel-centered content to seekers globally. Teams are encouraged to test the platform thoroughly before full adoption. https://www.jonloomer.com/chatgpt-ads-initial-impressions/ Google's Agentic Leap and the New Gemini Era Google has introduced advanced autonomous Gemini AI agents capable of planning events, drafting emails, and continuously monitoring the internet on your behalf. These highly integrated systems act as invisible coworkers that perform complex digital actions rather than simply answering questions. For Mission Teams Mission teams integrating Google Gemini into their workflows could explore using these agents for administrative tasks. While the platform is expected to offer stronger security than some alternatives, deploying continuous cloud-based assistants still raises important concerns surrounding data privacy and the protection of sensitive contact information. https://gemini.google/overview/agent/spark Microsoft May 2026 Patch Tuesday Fixes 120 Security Flaws Microsoft has released security updates fixing 120 vulnerabilities, including 17 rated as critical. Notable fixes address a Windows DNS Client issue (CVSS 9.8) and a Microsoft Dynamics 365 remote code execution flaw (CVSS 9.9). Notably, this month’s Patch Tuesday included no actively exploited or publicly disclosed zero-day vulnerabilities. For Mission Teams Any Windows computers or servers used by ministry teams should be updated as soon as possible. Attackers often move quickly after patches are published to target systems that have not yet been updated. Ensuring devices receive automatic security updates remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect ministry communications, sensitive data, and operational systems. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-may-2026-patch-tuesday-fixes-120-flaws-no-zero-days/ Google Ads and GA4 Platform Updates Google is rolling out several marketing automation updates, including automatic YouTube channel linking, integrated AI tools that convert static images into video ads, and infrastructure improvements to Google Analytics 4 (GA4). For Mission Teams Teams using Google Ads can now more quickly convert static photos into engaging seeker-focused video ads directly within the platform and integrate YouTube data more easily. The addition of an AI agent within GA4 may also prove useful for setting up tags and troubleshooting technical issues. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-20-adriaan-dekker-buaxe/ The Rise of Fully Automated Ad Campaigns Meta is steadily moving toward an advertising model where artificial intelligence handles full campaign creation, optimization, and management based on a user's basic budget and objective. While this automated "easy button" simplifies marketing for smaller entities, humans will remain vital for translating complex brand strategies and overseeing AI performance. For Mission Teams This shift could allow teams to scale digital discipleship without requiring highly specialized ad managers to build and optimize social media campaigns manually. However, there are serious logistical concerns. Just this month Meta's algorithms incorrectly served ads for Kavanah Media team members or refused to serve them at all. Full automation of the ad process may, conversely, make it more difficult for teams to find and engage with the seekers in accordance with their target persona. https://www.jonloomer.com/future-of-meta-advertiser/ Social Commerce Overwhelms Traditional Search for Discovery People are increasingly turning to Instagram and Facebook to discover products and content before ever using traditional search engines like Google. Social media feeds are transforming into interactive, searchable digital storefronts where peer validation and creator reviews drive faster decision-making than standard web searches. For Mission Teams This massive behavioral shift means vastly more user traffic is staying on Meta platforms, significantly increasing the potential visibility of digital evangelism ads. Teams not already leveraging Meta products in their digital engagement strategies may be missing out on a viable platform. https://www.facebook.com/business/news/social-search-series-1 YouTube Shorts and Podcasts Explode on Connected Television Screen Layouts YouTube viewers now consume over two billion hours of vertical Shorts and hundreds of millions of podcast hours on home television screens every month. In response, the platform is redesigning its TV application to feature side-by-side comment sections and dedicated short-form video feeds. For Mission Teams This massive shift to living room screens provides a premier opportunity to place engaging, short-form gospel content directly in front of seeking families. Teams are encouraged to research the Reels on TV engagement rates in their location and experiment with optimizing for the placement. https://techcrunch.com/2026/05/14/youtube-viewers-watch-2-billion-hours-of-shorts-on-tvs-each-month/ Instagram Introduces Post-Publishing Edits for Stories Instagram is rolling out a new feature that allows users to edit their published Stories without having to delete and reupload them to fix mistakes. Early tests indicate that applying an edit will reset all existing likes, reactions, and comments on that specific Story. For Mission Teams This update allows digital evangelists to quickly fix text errors or update broken links on active seeker-targeted content without losing their momentum. https://www.digitaltrends.com/social-media/spotted-a-mistake-on-your-instagram-story-you-can-finally-edit-it-after-posting/ Canva Seamlessly Integrates Brand Tools into Major AI Chatbots Canva has integrated its graphic design ecosystem directly into ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, and Gemini to allow users to generate branded visuals inside chat workflows. Through this new connection, users can instantly search existing files, create designs from text prompts, and automatically apply strict corporate fonts and color schemes. For Mission Teams This deep integration allows digital evangelists to instantly generate brand-compliant graphics for social media ads directly inside their daily AI brainstorming sessions. https://archive.is/KLMy5 Discord Security Update: Default End-to-End Encryption for Audio and Video Discord has officially implemented automatic end-to-end encryption for all voice and video calls, direct messages, and private group streams. This security update excludes public Stage channels, and the company currently has no plans to extend this encryption to text messages. For Mission Teams This update guarantees that calls are fully protected from any external surveillance. For teams working in secure environments where Discord usage is prevalent, this platform offers a valuable and reliable communication solution. https://discord.com/blog/every-voice-and-video-call-on-discord-is-now-end-to-end-encrypted?utm_source=tldrinfosec Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. Jon Ralls' new book–  Check out Jon Ralls' new book The Reluctant Whisper on Amazon, where he talks of evangelism from a sales pitch into an authentic act of presence—sharing faith through story, not scripts! Check it out here. Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: May 22, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - May 15, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including the launch of Kavanah Analytics, Fake Claude links, Meta patches and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Kavanah Analytics: Turning Data into Mission Action How is your digital content truly impacting lives? We created Kavanah Analytics to help churches and mission teams answer that question. Kavanah Analytics is a powerful, user-friendly tool that tracks the journey from the first ad click to Disciple.tools entries. With easy-to-read maps and dashboards, you’ll no longer have to guess how to digital engagement strategy is performing- you will see it! Click the link below to learn more: kavanahanalytics.com Fake Claude AI Software Delivers Malware Through Google Ads Hackers are using deceptive Google search ads to trick people into downloading fake versions of the Claude AI application. These malicious ads lead to professional-looking websites that install dangerous software designed to steal your personal data and passwords. For Mission Teams This scam specifically targets digital tools your team might use for content creation and evangelism automation. Using unverified AI software can compromise your ministry's accounts and leak sensitive information about the seekers you are trying to reach. Only download software from trusted sources. https://www.techrepublic.com/article/news-claude-mac-download-google-ads-malware/?email_hash=daf5ed6a723491ea96e0ad54c9b5e613 Encrypted RCS Messaging Enhances Cross-Platform Security Apple and Google have launched a beta for end-to-end encrypted RCS messaging between iPhone and Android users. This update replaces old texting standards with stronger security features designed to keep conversations private from outside parties. For Mission Teams While not as widely used by mission teams globally, this rollout could significantly boost security for teams leveraging SMS for team communications. Team members should confirm that the lock icon is visible to ensure discipleship conversations remain confidential and secure from surveillance. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/05/end-to-end-encrypted-rcs-messaging-begins-rolling-out-today-in-beta/ Meta Patches Critical Security Flaws in WhatsApp Meta recently fixed two major security bugs that could let hackers trick users into opening dangerous files or links. These flaws affected billions of people using WhatsApp on phones and computers, making it easier for scams to look real. For Mission Teams Updating your app is vital for security. Maintaining current software protects your team's digital identity and the security of seekers you contact through the platform. https://www.techrepublic.com/article/news-whatsapp-users-update-meta-security-flaws/ Meta Introduces AI Tools for Business Messaging on Messenger Meta is launching new AI features to help organizations automate conversations and respond to inquiries more efficiently. These tools allow for personalized interactions and faster support by using artificial intelligence to handle common questions. For Mission Teams Members of the Kavanah team have not yet begun experimenting with this tool. There are legitimate concerns surrounding AI hallucinations and the ability of automated systems to facilitate authentic, gospel-centered conversations. However, as Meta continues refining the platform, it may become a viable alternative to chatbot tools such as ManyChat. Keeping these systems within Meta’s ecosystem could also offer advantages in scalability, integration, and overall cost efficiency. https://www.facebook.com/business/ai/business-ai/messenger Self-Serve ChatGPT Ads Beta Launches for Advertisers OpenAI has launched a self-serve Ads Manager beta, allowing U.S.-based businesses to create and manage advertisements directly within ChatGPT. The platform includes basic campaign management tools such as budget controls and cost-per-click (CPC) bidding, with sponsored content appearing contextually within AI conversations. For Mission Teams Although the platform is still in beta and currently limited to U.S.-based advertisers, it may represent a significant new opportunity for digital engagement. Context-based ad placement could allow teams to reach seekers during relevant spiritual, emotional, or life-stage conversations in a more natural way than traditional social advertising. At the same time, these tools remain very early-stage. Teams should approach experimentation carefully, particularly since conversion tracking and long-term performance data are still limited. Close monitoring will be important as the platform evolves. Kavanah Media has applied for access to the platform and is currently awaiting approval. https://www.jonloomer.com/qvt/self-serve-chatgpt-ads-beta-details/ Google Ads Mandates Passkeys for Sensitive Actions Starting July 15, 2026, Google Ads will require passkeys for high-risk actions such as modifying billing or changing user permissions. These cryptographic credentials use device-level biometrics or PINs to replace traditional passwords and provide stronger protection against phishing and account takeovers. For Mission Teams Implementing passkeys protects your ministry's ad account. Teams should set up passkeys now to avoid a seven-day security delay that could block urgent campaign adjustments after the July deadline. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-19-adriaan-dekker-5lsye/ https://support.google.com/google-ads/answer/16917887?hl=en Google Tag Manager Evolves into Google Tags At Google Marketing Live 2026, Google announced that GTM containers can now be upgraded to "Google Tags" to streamline tracking. This optional update introduces "Destinations," allowing teams to manage multiple platform settings from a single central location without loading redundant code. For Mission Teams The new visual event builder makes it easier for non-technical team members to track seeker interactions on landing pages without complex coding. Centralizing destinations improves website performance and security, ensuring that sensitive data is handled consistently across all evangelism campaigns. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-19-adriaan-dekker-5lsye/ TikTok Launches Ad-Free Subscription in the UK TikTok now allows users in the United Kingdom to pay a monthly subscription fee for an ad-free experience on the platform. This move follows a broader trend among social media companies, including Meta, toward offering paid versions of their apps with reduced or removed advertising. For Mission Teams   While TikTok has traditionally been more difficult to use for paid evangelism advertising due to religious content restrictions, it tends to offer higher engagement rates — often at a premium cost. Teams running campaigns in the UK should also account for a reduced addressable audience, as a portion of users opt out of sponsored content entirely. https://www.thesun.co.uk/tech/39046267/tiktok-ad-free-subscription-remove-ads/ Disney Expands Short-Form Video and Creator Partnerships Disney is launching a new vertical video feed called Verts to share short clips and creator content. This move aims to connect with younger audiences who prefer quick and interactive videos over traditional formats. For Mission Teams While not directly related to digital engagement platforms, Disney’s latest move highlights the growing importance of short-form, Reels-style video content across the broader media landscape. Mission teams should continue prioritizing these formats to maximize visibility and engagement across major social platforms. https://www.tubefilter.com/2026/05/11/disney-is-doubling-down-on-short-form-including-creator-partnerships/ WhatsApp Adds Incognito AI for Private Messaging WhatsApp now offers a private way to talk to AI where your messages disappear and leave no history. Meta claims their new system keeps these conversations secret even from the company itself. For Mission Teams This update could provide a more private environment for seekers to ask sensitive questions about faith without generating a highly visible digital trail. Mission teams may benefit by ensuring their websites and content are optimized for AI discovery and indexing. At the same time, teams should remain cautious about the information they share with AI agents themselves. Although Meta states that it cannot view certain protected data, privacy and security risks still remain. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c99lmyr1dnxo Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. Jon Ralls' new book–  Check out Jon Ralls' new book The Reluctant Whisper on Amazon, where he talks of evangelism from a sales pitch into an authentic act of presence—sharing faith through story, not scripts! Check it out here. Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: May 15, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - May 8, 2026 Welcome to this week's edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! This week features significant updates from Meta, including AI connection usage rates and more. Additionally, there are changes to Google Ads, the latest developments regarding Turkey's social media restrictions, and other important news. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Meta AI Connectors for Ad Management Meta now allows advertisers to manage their ad campaigns using popular AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude. This new feature simplifies the process by removing the need for complex technical setups or developer credentials. For Mission Teams A few weeks ago there were widespread reports of marketers have their ad accounts disabled for integration AI tools through third party means. Meta appears to have made an official connection, but many still urge caution.  Missions team hoping to leverage AI tools for ads management would be wise to hold off or exclusively use the new built Meta AI Business Assistant for the time being https://www.jonloomer.com/meta-ads-ai-connectors-claude/ Meta Daily Active Users Decline For the first time Meta reported a slight drop in the total number of people using its apps for the first time. This decrease happened mostly because of internet shutdowns and app restrictions in specific countries like Iran and Russia. For Mission Teams Even though Meta reported this slight drop in app usage, their add revenue is still growing and is likely simple related to global events. However, a drop in users highlights the risk of relying on single platforms for digital evangelism. Teams should diversify their outreach strategies to ensure they can still reach seekers when specific apps are blocked. https://www.jonloomer.com/meta-ads-ai-connectors/ Vimeo Data Breach Exposes Personal Information A security breach at Vimeo recently exposed the personal data of over 100,000 users due to a vulnerability in their system. This leaked information included names and email addresses, though passwords and financial details were reportedly not compromised. For Mission Teams Missions teams leveraging Vimeo as part of their digital engagement strategies should verify if their accounts have been compromised or not. This also highlights the importance of practicing strong cybersecurity hygiene such as utilizing strong passwords and MFA. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/vimeo-data-breach-exposes-personal-information-of-119-000-people/ Google Analytics 4 Task Assistant Update Google Analytics has launched Task Assistant to provide a guided checklist for improving property setup and data collection. This feature, found in the left navigation menu, organizes tailored recommendations into categories like account connections and data troubleshooting. For Mission Teams This assistant could help simplify the setup and management of data collection in GA4. Using this tool helps teams identify and fix data gaps that could otherwise compromise the security or effectiveness of digital outreach. https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/16888318?hl=en ChatGPT Ads Expansion OpenAI has launched a self-service Ads Manager, significantly lowering the barrier for businesses to advertise within ChatGPT. The minimum spend has dropped from $250,000 to $50,000, and the platform is moving toward a cost-per-click (CPC) model. For Mission Teams While still out of the reach of missions teams ad budgets this significant price drop could be a good signal. If prices continue to fall ChatGPT ads could become a viable platform for teams to leverage in their digital engagement projects. Additionally, other AI platforms may follow suit.  https://www.searchenginejournal.com/openai-launches-self-serve-ads-manager-for-chatgpt/573971/ Turkey Social Media Restrictions- Update  Turkey has passed a law banning children under 15 from social media to increase online safety for minors. Platforms must now use strict age verification and give parents more control over what their children see. For Mission Teams  Thus far Turkiye’s response to social media is similar to many countries around the world- age restrictions. It is unclear what further restrictions may come. Teams leveraging digital engagement tools in Turkiye should keep apprised of local news and adjust their strategies accordingly.  https://apnews.com/article/turkey-social-media-children-restrictions-law-d88963a7446a12cf4963b73d455b5ef7 Google Search Integrates Reddit Quotes Google is updating its AI search summaries to include direct quotes and advice from Reddit and other social forums. This change aims to provide users with authentic, human-focused answers by highlighting real discussions and community expertise. For Mission Teams This update means seeker questions about faith may now surface organic community discussions alongside traditional search results. Teams could consider leveraging these platforms as these peer-to-peer conversations now have significantly higher visibility in digital outreach. https://www.theverge.com/tech/924993/google-ai-search-mode-overviews-update-reddit-links Rising Facebook Account Lockouts Facebook is experiencing a surge in account lockouts as automated AI systems mistakenly flag normal user behavior as suspicious activity. These aggressive security filters often leave users stuck in a difficult appeal process with very little human support available to fix the errors. Members of the Kavanah Team have also seem a similar surge in Meta Ad account restrictions as of late.  For Mission Teams Over-active AI policing is causing problems for many. Teams should exercise caution when making major changes to Meta Business Suite settings, and even logging in while traveling. If pages, accounts or systems are restricted successful recovery is rare. https://searchengineland.com/why-facebook-account-lockouts-are-rising-and-whats-driving-them-476546 Facebook Sees Massive Engagement Surge Even in the midst of lower reported app usage in Q1 Facebook is experiencing a sudden and dramatic increase in organic reach, with some brands seeing their views and clicks nearly double. Meta is achieving this by updating its algorithm to prioritize original content and better rewards for creators who post directly to the platform. For Mission Teams This shift could prove to be a strategic window for mission teams to reach significantly more seekers without increasing their paid advertising budget. Teams should experiment with posting authentic, original video content now to take advantage of this increased visibility before the platform's reach potentially stabilizes. https://open.substack.com/pub/milkkarten/p/something-is-happening-on-facebook Instagram Testing Text Swaps for Reels Instagram is testing a new feature called Swap that allows users to replace the text on someone else’s video. This tool could let people quickly remix popular content, although it may conflict with recent rules against unoriginal posts. For Mission Teams Teams could potentially use popular trending videos to share gospel messages by simply swapping in biblical text or seeker-focused questions. However, this strategy carries a risk because it would make it easier for bad actors to swap out texts on Gospel centered content to distort the messaging before sharing it again.  https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-tests-option-to-swap-out-text-in-someone-elses-reels/819153/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. Jon Ralls' new book–  Check out Jon Ralls' new book The Reluctant Whisper on Amazon, where he talks of evangelism from a sales pitch into an authentic act of presence—sharing faith through story, not scripts! Check it out here. Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: May 8, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - May 1, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including Türkiye's latest control over social media, major telecom network exploitation, WhatsApp updates and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Turkey to Ban Anonymous VPNs and Mandate Social Media ID Checks The Turkish government is planning to ban anonymous VPN services and require all social media users to verify their identities using national ID numbers. These measures aim to eliminate online anonymity, allowing authorities to monitor digital activity and link every social media post to a specific person. For Mission Teams Mandatory identity checks and VPN bans create severe security risks for digital evangelists and seekers by making all online interactions traceable to real-world identities. All of these potential changes make decrease audience sizes and increase risk local teams may have to face https://reclaimthenet.org/turkey-to-ban-anonymous-vpns https://stockholmcf.org/turkey-proposes-mandatory-identity-checks-for-social-media-raising-press-freedom-concerns/ Covert Surveillance Actors Exploiting Global Telecom Networks Sophisticated surveillance groups are exploiting vulnerabilities in global mobile networks to track people's locations without them knowing. These actors use hidden commands and fake identities to turn mobile phones into tracking beacons that stay active for years. For Mission Teams This invisible tracking poses a major security threat to teams with digital evangelists and seekers who are meeting in high-risk areas. Mission teams must prioritize high-security communication apps that bypass standard mobile network protocols to protect their strategic movements and the safety of new disciples. https://citizenlab.ca/research/uncovering-global-telecom-exploitation-by-covert-surveillance-actors/ Windows Security Protection Failure A new vulnerability has been identified in Microsoft Windows that allows attackers to bypass important security protections. CISA has added this flaw to its list of known exploited vulnerabilities and urges immediate patching. For Mission Teams Attackers could use this flaw to gain deeper access to your computers and steal sensitive ministry data. Ensure all team laptops and Windows devices are updated immediately to prevent unauthorized access to your files. https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/alerts/2026/04/28/cisa-adds-two-known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog WhatsApp Support Ending for Older Phones WhatsApp has announced it will stop working on older Android phones running versions 5.0 and 5.1 by September 2026. Users on these devices are already receiving alerts to upgrade their software or hardware to maintain access. For Mission Teams Many seekers in developing regions still use older smartphones and may lose the ability to contact your team via WhatsApp. You should check which devices your local partners use and prepare for a potential shift to other messaging apps in those areas. https://in.mashable.com/tech/109058/whatsapp-support-ending-soon-for-these-older-android-phones-is-your-device-on-the-list Instagram Story Voice-Over Feature Instagram is developing a built-in feature that allows users to record voice-overs directly within the Story builder. This simplifies the process of adding narration to your visual content without using external apps. For Mission Teams Adding a personal voice to your stories can make your ministry feel more authentic and approachable to seekers. This tool allows team members to quickly share a spoken prayer or a short testimony over a photo or video. https://socialbee.com/blog/social-media-news/ Google Video Content Exclusion Settings Google has simplified its campaign settings to allow users to exclude their ads from specific types of video content at the customer level. This ensures that your ads do not appear alongside videos that, while legal, may not align with your ministry's values. For Mission Teams Using these exclusions helps protect your ministry's reputation by keeping your ads away from inappropriate or distracting content. It also ensures your budget is spent on placements that are more likely to reach people in a respectful and open frame of mind. http://ads-developers.googleblog.com/2026/ Meta Transitioning from Dynamic Creative to New Creative Workflow Meta is permanently removing the Dynamic Creative feature and replacing it with a more advanced creative workflow. This new system allows users to upload up to ten media files while providing much better data on how each specific image or video performs. For Mission Teams Members of the Kavanah Media team are already leveraging this new feature. It makes it easier than ever to fully leverage creative diversity without having to use Flexible ad format or building multiple ads per ad set.  https://www.jonloomer.com/meta-ads-evolution-important-changes-for-2025/ Google Ads Updates and Trends for 2026 Google has introduced several updates including advanced AI-driven campaign features and more detailed reporting for Performance Max campaigns. These changes focus on automating ad creation while giving marketers better insights into how their budget is being spent. For Mission Teams Improved AI automation helps small mission teams create more effective ads to reach seekers with minimal manual effort. Better reporting tools allow teams to see exactly which audiences are responding to the gospel, ensuring resources are used strategically and securely. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-17-adriaan-dekker-1hwye/ Google Ads Advisor Launches New AI Safety Features Google is enhancing its Ads Advisor tool with three AI-powered features designed to automate security and policy compliance. These updates include proactive troubleshooting for policy violations, continuous account security monitoring, and instant certifications for regulated industries. For Mission Teams These automated tools could help mission teams to more quickly resolve ad rejections and maintain high security for their accounts without constant manual oversight. Proactive monitoring and instant certifications ensure that vital gospel campaigns stay active and protected against unauthorized access or technical roadblocks. https://blog.google/products/ads-commerce/ads-advisor-google-ads/ Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: May 1, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - April 24, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including the latest cybersecurity worries, a reminder that you can integrate Tiktok and Meta Analytics with GA4, the latest Canva update and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Windows Infostealer Distributed via Fake VPN Sites and Gaming Mods Hackers are creating fake websites for popular tools like Proton VPN to trick people into downloading harmful software. Once installed, this virus steals private data and passwords directly from your computer. For Mission Teams Missions teams should only download files from trusted and verified sources. https://www.malwarebytes.com/blog/threat-intel/2026/04/from-fake-proton-vpn-sites-to-gaming-mods-this-windows-infostealer-is-everywhere Unified Data Import for Google Analytics Google Analytics now allows users to bring in data from platforms like Meta and TikTok for free to see all marketing results in one place. This tool helps people understand how their total budget is performing without needing to check many different websites. For Mission Teams Consolidating data from multiple social media advertising platforms can help mission teams identify which channels are most effective for connecting with seekers. A unified view of performance data enables better stewardship of resources and helps ensure that engagement insights remain organized within a single trusted dashboard. However, some Kavanah Media team members have reported challenges with these integrations. Teams should test these tools carefully before full adoption and be aware that Google may modify or discontinue these features in the future. Have you implemented this approach? What has your experience been? https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/9164320?hl=en The Shift Toward Sovereign Messaging Government officials across parts of Europe are moving away from widely used apps like WhatsApp in favor of state-developed communication platforms. This shift reflects a growing desire for greater control over sensitive data, particularly in response to concerns about foreign surveillance and cyber threats. For Mission Teams This trend highlights the increasing risk of relying solely on commercial messaging platforms for sensitive outreach and internal communication, especially in restricted or high-surveillance regions. Government entities, corporations, and even mission agencies are beginning to prioritize platforms they can directly control or manage. For many mission teams, tools like Signal remain a viable option due to their strong security features. However, teams should carefully assess their risk tolerance and choose communication tools that align with their specific security needs and operating environments. https://www.politico.eu/article/european-civil-servants-new-messaging-services/ Canva AI 2.0 and the Future of Design Canva has updated its platform with a powerful AI assistant that creates complete designs from simple descriptions. This new system can manage complex tasks and use multiple creative tools at once to save time. For Mission Teams These updated automated design tools can help mission teams with limited resources efficiently create professional social media ads to better reach seekers. https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/16/canvas-ai-assistant-can-now-call-various-tools-to-make-designs-for-you/ Instagram Analytics Upgrade for Content Reach Instagram has added a new dashboard that ranks post results based on what actually helps more people see your content. The system compares every new post to your last five to show you exactly which ones are performing best. For Mission Teams These reach-focused metrics help teams leveraging organic campaigns to quickly identify which specific messages or formats are most effective at finding new seekers. By understanding what drives distribution, digital evangelists can stop guessing and focus their strategy on content that successfully starts new spiritual conversations. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/samanthabensimonyehle_instagram-now-has-the-most-insightful-performance-ugcPost-7450196573705342976-pZKl/ Mobile App Sharing with Precision Timestamps YouTube has added a new feature to its mobile app that lets users share a video starting at a specific second. While this new sharing tool is being added, YouTube is also removing its older Clips feature. For Mission Teams This update allows digital evangelists to share specific, impactful gospel moments from long videos directly with seekers. Teams must adjust their strategy to use these precise timestamps for engagement since the internal Clips tool is no longer available for highlighting key discipleship content. https://www.theverge.com/streaming/913611/youtube-mobile-app-share-at-timestamp-clips Global Expansion of Meta AI Business Assistant Meta is expanding its AI business assistant globally to help advertisers manage campaigns across multiple languages. The tool is designed to streamline troubleshooting, provide automated recommendations, and improve overall campaign efficiency. For Mission Teams While Meta Ads Manager can present challenges—particularly around reliability and support responsiveness—this global rollout may offer new opportunities for mission teams to optimize ad performance, resolve issues more quickly, and reach seekers more effectively in local languages. Automated recommendations can improve efficiency, but teams should carefully evaluate how AI-driven targeting and optimization may impact the digital security and privacy of those engaging with gospel content. https://www.facebook.com/business/news/meta-ai-business-assistant-expands-globally-with-more-languages Meta Value Rules for Targeted Audiences Meta is introducing Value Rules, a feature that allows advertisers to signal which audiences are most valuable to their goals. Instead of optimizing only for clicks or conversions, these rules help the system prioritize users who are more likely to take higher-value actions. For Mission Teams Mission teams can use Value Rules to guide the algorithm toward more meaningful engagement—such as prioritizing new contacts, highly engaged users, or specific audience segments. While this does not replace detailed targeting, it does offer a degree of strategic input that helps shape how campaigns are optimized. https://www.jonloomer.com/meta-value-rules-audiences/ Religious Affiliation Trends Among Immigrants Research indicates that immigrants to the United States tend to become less religiously affiliated over time, reflecting broader trends in the general population. While newcomers are often assumed to be more devout, data suggests that both religious identity and church attendance frequently decline after resettlement. For Mission Teams These trends suggest a potential window of opportunity for early engagement with first-generation immigrants as they adjust to a new cultural environment. Digital outreach efforts may be more effective when they address the immediate questions of identity, community, and belonging that often accompany relocation. Mission teams can use these insights to shape thoughtful, culturally aware campaigns. However, teams should also ensure that all outreach efforts comply with platform advertising policies and respect local sensitivities. https://www.graphsaboutreligion.com/p/the-myth-of-the-devout-immigrant Threads Launches Live Chats for Real-Time Interaction Threads has introduced Live Chats to allow groups of up to 150 people to have public conversations during live events. This new feature includes interactive tools like real-time polls, countdowns, and media sharing to keep users engaged as events happen. For Mission Teams Live Chats provide a powerful way for digital evangelists to host real-time spiritual discussions or Q&A sessions with seekers during significant global events. Teams must monitor these public chats closely to manage security and ensure that participants can engage in a safe environment without exposing sensitive personal information. https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/22/threads-is-adding-live-chats-to-boost-real-time-engagement/ Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: April 24, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - April 17, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including Iranian Cyber Attacks, Changes to Meta's Flexible ad format, Russia's crackdown on VPN's and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Iranian Cyber Actor Warning The FBI and CISA warned that cyber actors are targeting critical infrastructure by manipulating data on control displays. While focused on utilities, these actors often use similar tactics to disrupt communication networks. For Mission Teams This highlights the importance of using strong, unique passwords for any devices connected to your ministry network. Teams in sensitive regions should remain extra vigilant against unusual activity on their internet-connected hardware. https://www.ic3.gov/CSA/2026/260407.pdf Critical Vulnerability in Ninja Forms WordPress Plugin Hackers are using a major weakness in a popular website tool called Ninja Forms to take over websites. This flaw allows outsiders to run hidden code and gain full control of the site without needing a password. For Mission Teams Security flaws in web forms can expose sensitive contact information of seekers and disrupt digital disciple-making efforts. Teams must update their WordPress plugins immediately to protect their platform's integrity and ensure the safety of those engaging with their content. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-exploit-critical-flaw-in-ninja-forms-wordpress-plugin/? Changes to Meta’s Ad Formatting Meta is removing the Flexible Format option from its ad setup tools. This change means advertisers will soon use a new system called Format Display Options to manage how their images and videos appear. For Mission Teams This update requires teams to adapt their creative strategies for social media ads used in seeker outreach. Many teams leveraged the Flexible ad format, avoiding the dreaded "creative ad fatigue." A possible alternative is developing custom formats for each placement and creating multiple ads per ad set to allow for even more creative options. https://www.jonloomer.com/new-value-rules-for-audiences/ Official Meta Pixel Integration for GA4 Meta has updated its official tracking template to integrate more seamlessly with Google Analytics 4. This update enables more consistent data sharing between platforms, helping advertisers better understand how users interact with their websites. For Mission Teams This integration can help simplify the setup and management of the Meta Pixel. While Meta’s religious data restrictions have reduced the effectiveness of traffic campaigns for many teams, there are still strategic use cases where they remain viable. For teams that continue to rely on the Meta Pixel and website-based campaigns, this updated tracking template should provide more reliable data and improved insights. https://tagmanager.google.com/gallery/#/owners/facebook/templates/GoogleTagManager-WebTemplate-For-FacebookPixel Russia’s VPN Crackdown Disrupts Financial Infrastructure The Russian government attempted to block VPN services, but the technical process accidentally crashed the country's banking systems. This caused many people to lose access to digital payments and forced them to use cash for a short time. For Mission Teams This crackdown shows that digital evangelism efforts in restricted areas face high risks of sudden internet instability and surveillance. Teams must prepare backup communication methods, prioritize high-security tools and practice good cybersecurity hygiene. https://archive.is/4Z74V YouTube Viewing Trends and Platform Growth YouTube Shorts have grown significantly and now reach over 200 billion views every single day. Additionally, global audiences are consuming more than one billion hours of YouTube content on their television screens daily. For Mission Teams The scale of Shorts highlights the importance of prioritizing short-form video in digital engagement strategies. However, the high volume of TV-based viewing also points to a growing opportunity for long-form discipleship content—particularly for reaching individuals and families in more private, in-home environments. https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/youtube-expands-ai-powered-tools-shares-trend-insights/751149/ Meta Expected to Overtake Google in Digital Advertising Meta is projected to become the world's largest digital advertising business this year, surpassing Google for the first time. This growth is largely driven by artificial intelligence improvements and the success of short-form video content like Reels. For Mission Teams Meta's increasing dominance suggests that advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram is currently still a very effective way to reach large audiences. It should not be discounted as a viable option for digital engagement work. https://www.wsj.com/business/media/meta-expected-to-unseat-google-as-worlds-largest-digital-ad-player-83d3f522?st=UHLFza&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink&mod=tldr& Meta Challenges X’s Dominance in Japan Through Threads Meta is launching a localized campaign to grow its Threads platform in Japan where the app X is currently very popular. They created a special account to share local tips and help more Japanese users switch to their new social network. For Mission Teams Japan remains a critical frontier for digital evangelism where the majority of the population is active on X but transitioning to Threads. Teams should consider establishing a presence on Threads now to connect with early adopters. https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/meta-looks-to-grow-threads-in-japan/816782/ Faith, Masculinity, and the Rise of “Catholicmaxxing” TikTok creators are increasingly blending traditional religious themes with modern fitness and dating culture. While these viral videos often present faith as trendy and masculine, broader data suggests that more young people are leaving the church than joining it. For Mission Teams While this trend is most visible in Western contexts, it highlights a growing desire for identity, purpose, and community among young men. Mission teams can engage this audience through relatable, lifestyle-oriented content that reflects real experiences. Authenticity is especially important so teams should prioritize using real people and genuine stories whenever possible to build trust and connection. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/apr/07/catholicmaxxing-catholicism--church-religion-tiktok-gen-z-influencers Major Tech Companies Track Users Despite Opt-Out Requests An independent audit found that Google, Meta, and Microsoft may continue tracking users even after opt-out signals are enabled. In some cases, advertising cookies were still placed on user devices despite the use of official privacy controls. For Mission Teams This report highlights the ongoing tension between user privacy and large-scale data collection. Data privacy and Big Tech remain in a constant tug of war. As a result, teams should not assume that platform-based privacy settings fully prevent tracking and should remain flexible as policies and technologies evolve. When handling sensitive or internal communications, it is important to prioritize tools with strong security features, such as end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure backups. Platforms like WhatsApp can be useful in certain contexts, but teams should carefully evaluate each tool based on their specific risk environment. https://www.404media.co/google-microsoft-meta-all-tracking-you-even-when-you-opt-out-according-to-an-independent-audit/ Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: April 17, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - April 10, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know, including custom groups in Signal, usernames in WhatsApp, Church Media Trends and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Custom Group Member Labels Signal now allows you to add a specific label to your profile that only appears within a certain group chat. This feature helps other members identify your role or title without changing your name everywhere else. For Mission Teams Missionaries could use these labels to clearly identify roles such as "Moderator" or "Language Translator" while maintaining privacy in other chats. https://signal.org/blog/group-member-labels/   YouTube Interaction Tools for TV YouTube is adding live chats and gifting features to its television app to make watching more active. They are also building a new search tool that lets you use your voice to find videos. For Mission Teams Teams leveraging YouTube ads and organic content should be aware that their content may be viewed on a television and format them appropriately. Additionally, Live Chats may open an entirely new platform for engagement.  https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/08/as-youtube-grows-on-tv-it-eyes-more-interactive-video-across-formats/   Church Media Trends 2026 Church Media Squad contends that modern church media is shifting away from high-budget production toward authentic, daily digital interactions. This approach focuses on using short-form video and consistent online presence to build real relationships throughout the week. For Mission Teams Teams must prioritize raw and authentic short-form video to build trust with seekers while ensuring secure, consistent communication across all digital platforms. These trends provide a roadmap for using social media ads and daily content to move people from digital interest to active discipleship. To see the full list check out the article below: https://churchmediasquad.com/squadchatblog/church-media-trends-2026   Meta Implements AI-First Strategy for Ad Creation Meta is moving toward full ad automation by late 2026, using its Andromeda and Advantage+ AI tools. These tools shift the responsibility of targeting, budgeting, and creative design to automated algorithms. For Mission Teams Meta's AI- first goals could eventually replace the role of marketers. In theory, this could help small teams create high-performing outreach campaigns with very limited staff resources. However, reliance on these "black box" systems requires careful oversight to ensure ad content remains culturally sensitive and original. https://www.marketingbrew.com/stories/2026/04/07/meta-ai-ad-creation   Threads Launches Native Mac App Threads has released a native app for macOS, offering a more stable desktop experience than the browser-based version. This move follows the recent launch of a native WhatsApp app for iPads. For Mission Teams A native Mac app would allow teams to manage conversations from their Mac devices natively. This update helps streamline outreach operations for teams that rely on desktop-based workflows. https://www.threads.com/@theahmedghanem/post/DLNBJioNVOu   Diagnostic Framework for Meta Ads Performance Jon Loomer outlines a framework for identifying why Meta ads stop working, stressing that most issues are logical and explainable rather than algorithm errors. The guide advises marketers to stop blaming system updates like "Andromeda" and instead investigate internal factors like website speed, tracking lags, and natural audience exhaustion. For Mission Teams When ads underperform to first consider logical causes: randomness (especially with low volume), recent changes (new ads or campaigns), competitive shifts (CPM spikes due to seasonality or competition), website issues (slow loading or broken links), and event delays (reporting lags from Meta, CRM, or third-party tools). To see the full list click the link below: https://www.jonloomer.com/ad-brief-example/   Overcoming the Fear of the Learning Phase Meta ad performance is no longer fragile or easily broken by making small changes to your campaigns. You do not need to reach a specific number of conversions to get good results or worry about breaking the Learning Phase. Frequently, it's common for sales ads for more expensive offers to never exit the learning phase anyways. For Mission Teams Mission teams should no longer fear the Learning Phase and can freely make adjustments to content, budgets and more at any point of the campaign process. https://www.jonloomer.com/meta-ads-approach-changed/   New Federal Cybersecurity Reporting Rules The government is finalizing rules that require organizations to report major cyber attacks within 72 hours. These mandates aim to track digital threats and protect critical infrastructure across the country. For Mission Teams Teams operating as registered non-profits or businesses may soon face strict timelines for reporting data breaches. Teams should review how local, federal and even international data laws may apply to their digital strategies and plan accordingly. https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/new-federal-cybersecurity-reporting-5987747/   WhatsApp Usernames for Enhanced Privacy WhatsApp is introducing usernames so people can connect without sharing their private phone numbers. Users can create unique names and set a four-digit code that others must enter to start a chat. For Mission Teams This feature significantly increases security for field workers by hiding their personal phone numbers from strangers and potential trackers. Using usernames and PINs allows teams to safely scale digital outreach while controlling who can view personal info. https://wabetainfo.com/whatsapp-is-rolling-out-the-username-feature-on-android-and-ios/     Engagement Benefits of Replying to Comments Research shows that responding to people who comment on your social media posts significantly increases how many others see your content. Engaging in conversations helps the platform's algorithm show your message to a much wider audience. For Mission Teams Consistent replies transform one-way broadcasts into engagement opportunities that can also boost performance. Teams should not neglect the comments section and leverage tools such as Business Suite, Content Studio and others to moderate comment sections.  https://buffer.com/resources/replying-to-your-comments-on-facebook-boosts-engagement/   Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: April 10, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - April 3, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including Instagram's latest tests, security flaws in TP- Link Routers, Meta and YouTube's latest loss in court and more.  Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Social Media Liability Ruling A court recently ruled against Meta and YouTube regarding how they show content to young people. The judge said these companies can be held responsible if their computer programs lead to harm for children. For Mission Teams This legal change could lead to stricter rules for social media ads and how teams find new people online. Teams should be prepared to adjust strategies as companies change in compliance to this developement. https://www.wsj.com/tech/meta-and-youtube-lose-landmark-social-media-trial-33e4c5cb Instagram Plus Meta is testing a new paid subscription service called Instagram Plus in certain countries. This service allows users to pay a small monthly fee to access secret features like watching someone's Story without them knowing. For Mission Teams This update is important because it means people can watch your ministry content without appearing on your viewer list. Teams leveraging stories in their digital strategies may also see a drop in engagement from subscribers. https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/30/meta-testing-paid-instagram-service-that-lets-users-secretly-view-stories/ Critical Security Update for TP-Link Routers TP-Link is urging users to update their internet routers immediately due to a critical security vulnerability. This flaw in the device’s firmware could allow an attacker to gain control of the router without requiring authentication. For Mission Teams This vulnerability poses a significant risk for teams using affected routers, as unauthorized access could enable attackers to monitor internet traffic or disrupt connectivity. Teams should review their hardware and apply the latest security updates as soon as possible to protect sensitive communications and location data. https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/tp-link-warns-users-to-patch-critical-router-auth-bypass-flaw/ Performance Max and Data Control Google is giving advertisers more control in Performance Max by allowing them to exclude specific audiences and see exactly which websites are displaying their ads. The company is also introducing “Asset Group Theming,” which uses AI to quickly generate variations of ads tailored to different seasons or events. For Mission Teams While these features are typically used in sales-focused campaigns, they provide mission teams with greater control and improved visibility into their Performance Max campaigns. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-13-adriaan-dekker-bpuje/ AI Ads and Creator Partnerships ChatGPT has reached $100 million in ad revenue, with a new self-serve platform launching in April to allow more advertisers on the app. Meanwhile, Google is integrating YouTube Creator Partnerships into its ads to help brands use authentic videos that increase engagement. For Mission Teams While ChatGPT ads are currently limited to larger marketing companies, if this trend continues and AI platforms become accessible to a broader range of advertisers, these platforms could become highly viable for digital engagement projects. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-13-adriaan-dekker-bpuje/ AI-Powered Audience Targeting Meta is testing a new way to find customers by letting advertisers describe their ideal audience using simple sentences. Instead of picking from a list of interests, the computer uses AI to find the right people based on the description you type in. For Mission Teams This tool allows teams to describe "seekers" or "people interested in spiritual growth" in their own words to reach a more specific group. It should be noted, however, that this feature is still in testing and audience targeting metrics have been treated as mere suggestions by Meta's algorithms for some time now. It is unclear if this tool makes any difference. https://www.jonloomer.com/describe-your-audience-detailed-targeting/ New Social Media Ad Measurement Rules Meta is updating how it measures clicks and engagement on ads to better align with external analytics platforms such as Google Analytics. The company is also lowering the threshold for counting a video view, reducing it from 10 seconds to 5 seconds. For Mission Teams Mission teams will begin to see these metric changes reflected in their Meta ad accounts. Additionally, teams using third-party data aggregation tools like Looker Studio may need to update their reporting configurations to ensure accurate and uninterrupted data tracking. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-march-recap-adriaan-dekker-xcx3e/ WhatsApp AI and Multi-Account Updates WhatsApp is adding several new features, including an AI assistant that can help you draft replies and edit photos directly in your chats. They are also making it easier to switch between two different accounts on one phone and move your chat history between different types of devices. For Mission Teams The ability to run two accounts on one device is a major security win, allowing team members to keep personal and ministry conversations completely separate. However, the AI writing assistant should be used with caution, as automated suggestions might not always capture the cultural or spiritual sensitivity needed when talking to seekers about deep topics. https://about.fb.com/news/2026/03/whatsapp-new-features-simplify-storage-switch-accounts AI-Powered Video Tools in CapCut ByteDance has integrated its new AI video generation model, Dreamina Seedance 2.0, directly into the CapCut editing app. This tool allows users to create high-quality video clips or expand existing footage simply by typing a text description or using a reference image. For Mission Teams This technology allows teams to create professional-looking gospel presentations and social media ads with very little budget or technical skill. However, using AI-generated content requires extra discernment to ensure the visuals accurately represent the message and remain culturally appropriate for the target audience. Security Disclaimer Because CapCut is owned by ByteDance, there are significant data privacy concerns regarding how user information and uploaded media are handled. It is strongly recommended that mission teams use ByteDance products on a separate, dedicated device that does not contain sensitive ministry data, contact lists, or personal accounts. https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/26/bytedances-new-ai-video-generation-model-dreamina-seedance-2-0-comes-to-capcut/ Fake WhatsApp App Contains Spyware A fraudulent version of WhatsApp was discovered on iOS devices, reportedly developed by a surveillance firm to monitor users. WhatsApp has notified affected users, logged them out of their accounts, and urged them to remove the malicious app immediately to protect their data. For Mission Teams This is a critical reminder that mission teams should only download apps from official app stores and never through third-party links or "beta" invites. Using a fake app could allow outsiders to monitor your private messages, track your location, and identify the seekers you are communicating with in sensitive regions. https://techcrunch.com/2026/04/01/whatsapp-notifies-hundreds-of-users-who-installed-a-fake-app-that-was-actually-government-spyware/ Reddit Ranked as Top Source for AI Answers A new study shows that Reddit is now the most-cited source for AI search tools and chatbots like ChatGPT and Gemini. These AI systems are prioritizing authentic, person-to-person discussions and trusted platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn over traditional brand websites. For Mission Teams While primarily relevant in the West, this shift means that the "digital front door" for seekers may be moving away from ministry websites and toward community forums and social platforms. To remain visible, mission teams should consider focusing on building a presence and sharing stories in public digital spaces where seekers are already asking questions and AI is looking for answers. https://www.reddit.com/r/DigitalMarketing/comments/1s5ejpd/reddit_is_now_the_most_cited_source_by_ai/ Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: April 3, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - March 27, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including Jon Ralls' new book, security concerns related to e-sims and LLMs, TikTok Ads, and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM The Reluctant Whisper by Jon Ralls This book by Jon Ralls, founder of Kavanah Media, explores the tension between holding the best news in the world and feeling hesitant to share it. It highlights how the Kingdom of God often advances through quiet, faithful presence rather than through scripted strategies or large spectacles. For Mission Teams For mission teams using digital engagement strategies, it can be easy to lose sight of the importance of presence. The Reluctant Whisper offers a helpful reminder that meaningful impact is not always driven by scale or efficiency, but by consistent, faithful engagement. If you have a Kindle Unlimited subscription, the book is currently available for free—worth adding to your reading list. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GSKYSF97?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apin_dp_T66FJ0DB70KT2HWNRQRF Choosing a Secure eSIM for International Travel Original article by Corey Keating of Ericius Security (https://www.ericiussecurity.org/) Many modern smartphones use digital eSIMs instead of physical SIM cards to provide connectivity across different countries. However, not all eSIM providers handle data securely. Some low-cost providers may route internet traffic through high-risk jurisdictions, which can increase the likelihood of data monitoring or interception. For Mission Teams For mission teams operating internationally, using untrusted eSIM resellers can expose sensitive information—such as location data and communications—to potential surveillance. This is especially important when coordinating outreach efforts or managing digital campaigns. To reduce risk, teams should choose trusted eSIM providers, such as major network operators like AT&T and Vodafone, or reputable global providers like Ubigi and Saily. These providers are more likely to follow established data protection practices and route traffic through secure networks. Check out the full article here to see Ericius' full write up and list of recommendations here: Choosing a Secure eSIM for International Travel by Ericius Security Federal Security Ban on Tech Brands The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned equipment from several Chinese technology companies, including Huawei, ZTE, Hytera, Hikvision, and Dahua Technology. These products are no longer authorized for certification or sale in the United States due to national security concerns. For Mission Teams Mission teams should review their existing hardware to ensure none of these restricted brands are in use. Equipment from these vendors—such as cameras or communication devices—may introduce elevated security risks, including potential data exposure or unauthorized access. In sensitive or high-surveillance regions, even indirect use of affiliated technologies or supply chains may increase vulnerability. Teams are encouraged to prioritize trusted vendors and regularly assess their technology stack for potential risks. Note on TP-Link While TP-Link has not been formally included in the FCC ban, it has faced separate scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and cybersecurity researchers regarding potential firmware vulnerabilities and its corporate structure. Teams should stay informed and evaluate such risks in the context of their operational environment. https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-420034A1.pdf or https://www.instagram.com/reels/DWQ3SwKCTLN/ (need an Instagram Account) Anonymity Online is a Myth Researchers have discovered that large language models can be used to identify anonymous people by analyzing their writing styles and public data. This automated process allows computers to link different online accounts to a single person with high accuracy across various social media platforms. For Mission Teams This technology poses a significant risk to digital missionaries and seekers who rely on anonymity to stay safe in restricted areas. Teams must be aware that their digital footprint can be easily connected, meaning they should use different writing styles and strict security protocols to prevent their real identities from being exposed. https://arxiv.org/abs/2602.16800v2 AI Risks, Ad Account Suspensions, and Other Updates Meta is increasingly relying on automated AI systems to detect and disable ad accounts that exhibit suspicious activity or policy violations. In many cases, these suspensions appear to be related to accounts that have integrated third-party AI agents such as Claude or ChatGPT. High volumes of automated API calls or unusual interaction patterns may trigger Meta’s enforcement systems. At the same time, Meta continues to expand its own AI ecosystem. Recent updates include deeper integration of its Manus AI agent for ad analysis and creative recommendations, the Meta AI Business Assistant for account support, and new AI-driven creative enhancements that allow users to ask an AI agent questions about a business directly within the ad experience. For Mission Teams For teams running ads to reach seekers, integrating third-party AI tools directly with ad accounts carries increased risk. It is recommended to prioritize Meta’s native AI tools before experimenting with external solutions. As always, teams should carefully test and review AI-generated outputs before full adoption to ensure accuracy, appropriateness, and alignment with ministry goals. https://www.jonloomer.com/ai-related-ad-account-shutdowns/ Google Ads Policy Simplification Google is removing several legacy ad format requirements to make way for more automated, AI-driven campaigns—similar to Meta’s Advantage+ creative approach. This update reduces older constraints on text and image ads, shifting toward more unified standards designed for modern campaign types. Additionally, some advertisers can now request support responses through WhatsApp, providing an alternative channel for communicating with Google Ads support teams. For Mission Teams Mission teams using Google Ads in their digital engagement strategies should be prepared to adapt to more AI-driven creative systems. As automation increases, it becomes especially important to review ad outputs carefully to ensure messaging remains accurate and contextually appropriate. The availability of support via WhatsApp may also streamline communication with Google Ads specialists, particularly for teams operating internationally. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-12-adriaan-dekker-kbaee/ TikTok Creative Cycle Strategies TikTok ads tend to lose effectiveness quickly, requiring creators to regularly refresh content to maintain engagement. To keep pace, brands should approach content creation like a supply chain—developing modular ads with varied hooks, formats, and calls to action. For Mission Teams This rapid turnover means teams should prioritize simple, high-volume content over highly polished, resource-intensive videos to effectively reach seekers. The pace of content decay is simply too fast for most teams to sustain high-quality production without dedicated media support. https://searchengineland.com/tiktok-ad-creative-short-shelf-life-472363 OpenAI Shuts Down Sora Video Platform OpenAI is closing its Sora video application and ending its major partnership with Disney. The company is refocusing its efforts away from creative video tools toward productivity, coding, and building a unified “superapp.” For Mission Teams Teams that were using Sora for creative video work will need to pivot, as the platform is no longer a reliable solution for high-end video generation. Instead, teams should explore more stable AI and creative productivity tools. Platforms such as Canva, Adobe, and Google's Nano Banana may provide effective alternatives. https://www.theverge.com/ai-artificial-intelligence/899850/openai-sora-ai-chatgpt WhatsApp Testing Auto-Translation for iPhone WhatsApp is testing a new feature that allows iPhone users to instantly translate incoming messages within their chats. This tool uses Apple’s on-device technology to translate text into 21 different languages while keeping the conversation encrypted and private. For Mission Teams This update could be a game-changer for digital missionaries who communicate with seekers across language barriers in real time. As with all other AI tools, translations should be verified for accuracy before sending. https://9to5mac.com/2026/03/20/whatsapp-for-iphone-may-soon-offer-automatic-message-translation-across-21-languages/ Lawmakers Target VPNs to Enforce Age Checks As online age verification laws become more common, government officials are exploring ways to prevent people from using VPNs to bypass these restrictions. Some proposals include blocking or strictly limiting VPN access to ensure compliance with digital regulations. For Mission Teams With modern internet encryption protocols, VPNs are generally less critical than in the past. However, if VPN use is restricted or banned, digital missionaries could lose a key tool for maintaining anonymity and accessing blocked platforms in high-risk regions. This shift may make it easier for authorities to monitor team movements, platform usage, and access to certain online tools. https://www.theverge.com/column/898122/online-age-verification-vpns Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: March 27, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - March 21, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know, including changes to Meta, new country-specific fees for marketing, MFA, data laws, and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Updates to Meta Meta is now adding extra fees for ads shown to people in certain countries to cover local digital taxes. It is also testing a new feature that lets you describe your audience in simple terms, with AI automatically suggesting the best interests and behaviors to target. For Mission Teams These new location fees mean your advertising budget might not go as far in specific regions, so you must plan for these extra costs in your digital strategy. The update to interest and detailed targeting is capturing the attention of marketers worldwide. For some time, Meta has limited marketers’ ability to use detailed targeting, instead relying on its algorithm. Teams are encouraged to test this new feature, although it is likely to serve only as a “suggestion,” similar to the previous iteration. Meta Location Fees by Country The following fees are added to your bill based on where your ads are delivered: Austria: 5% Türkiye: 5% France: 3% Italy: 3% Spain: 3% United Kingdom: 2% https://www.jonloomer.com/meta-location-fees/ Signal App Face Blur for Secure Photos Signal includes a built-in image editor that can automatically detect and blur faces in photos before you send them or save them to your device. This feature uses local on-device processing to ensure that unedited versions of your photos are never sent to a server or seen by anyone else. For Mission Teams This tool is vital for protecting the identity of seekers and local believers in sensitive regions where digital surveillance is a high risk. Teams can leverage this tool, but it is recommended to always manually check the image before sending. https://signal.org/blog/blur-tools/ Data Privacy and Digital Missions Compliance Data privacy laws, such as the GDPR in the European Union, the LPDP in North Macedonia, and U.S. data laws, regulate the handling of personal information. These laws are designed to protect individuals’ data and include stipulations regarding data breach handling, required data security measures, data sovereignty, consent, and more. While the specifics of these regulations can vary significantly by region and impact marketers and mission teams differently, one constant remains: marketers are responsible for ensuring that their data governance, marketing practices, and platforms comply with these laws. For Mission Teams Mission teams, agencies, and local churches using digital strategies are also likely to have exposure to these laws. In some jurisdictions, the costs of non-compliance are enough to bankrupt many mission agencies. Teams should review how local data privacy laws may affect their digital engagement projects and take steps to ensure compliance and mitigate risk. Check the link below to read more about Europe's GDPR laws: https://gdpr-info.eu/ If you want assistance navigating this topic, the Kavanah Media team is here to help. Please reach out here. Has Your Team Enable MFA? Multi-Factor Authentication, or MFA, acts like a second lock for your digital accounts to keep them safe. It requires a code from your phone, an app, a message, or a USB security key after you enter your password to verify that it is really you. For Mission Teams Using MFA is critical because it prevents attackers from taking over your social media ads or accessing sensitive conversations with seekers, even if they steal your password. Without this extra layer, a single hacked account could lead to financial loss, the deletion of years of ministry work, or the exposure of vulnerable contacts in high-risk regions. Priority Platforms to Secure To ensure your team is fully protected, please verify that MFA is enabled on the following platforms: Social Media: Facebook Business Suite, Instagram, X, and YouTube. Ministry Tools: Echo Global and Disciple.Tools instances. Core Systems: Organization email and website administrative logins. Financials: Any accounts linked to ad spend or donation processing. We Are Here to Help The Kavnaah Media team is committed to the safety and success of your digital outreach. If you need assistance setting up MFA or auditing your team's security settings, we are happy to help you walk through the process. Please reach out here.  Meta Buys MoltBook Meta has officially acquired Moltbook, a unique social media platform designed entirely for artificial intelligence agents to interact without human interference. On this site, thousands of bots created by developers, engaged in "synthetic social theater," where they debated topics, shared digital art, and even formed automated communities to see how AI evolves in a social ecosystem. For Mission Teams AI continues to develop rapidly and is being actively promoted by major digital platforms. Meta's recent acquisition is just another step in this progression. Changes are inevitable, and teams utilizing digital engagement strategies must be ready to learn, adapt their approaches, and prepare for the new risks that AI may introduce. https://www.techrepublic.com/article/news-meta-acquires-moltbook-bot-only-social-network/ Google Ads Expands In-Platform Creative Assets Google Ads is introducing a major update that allows advertisers to access "rich media" assets like photos, videos, and 3D models directly within the platform. Additionally, automatic YouTube channel linking and AI-generated voice-overs for video ads, similar to Creative Enhancements on Meta, are also being rolled out. For Mission Teams These automated tools allow your team to create professional-looking ads more easily. However, as with all AI tools, teams should carefully review these assets to ensure the message remains culturally sensitive and theologically accurate for the seekers they are trying to reach. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-11-adriaan-dekker-oltle/ Echo Global CRM and TikTok Integration Echo Global has launched a new TikTok integration that allows teams to manage video comments directly within the Echo platform. Once connected, your team can read, reply to, and track interactions from the “Social Media” area, including the ability to manually import older videos by URL. It is important to note that the TikTok integration currently supports only comment management. It does not support full inbox management. Teams wanting to leverage TikTok for engagement campaigns will still need to handle messages on the TikTok platform itself. For Mission Teams Many teams have reported high engagement via TikTok. This new integration could make it easier for teams to integrate TikTok into their larger digital strategy systems. https://www.echoglobal.org/help-center (search TikTok) Instagram Ends Encrypted Messaging Feature Meta has announced it will discontinue the option for end-to-end encrypted direct messages on Instagram starting May 8. The company stated that very few users utilized this specific security feature and is encouraging those who need high privacy to move their conversations to WhatsApp instead. For Mission Teams This change significantly reduces the security of your communication with seekers on Instagram, as your messages will no longer be hidden from the platform or potential surveillance. Additionally, using Instagram for sensitive or internal communications is not recommended. https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/meta-ends-end-to-end-encryption-on-instagram/814765/ Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: March 21, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - March 13, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know the latest cybersecurity concerns with messaging apps, changes to Meta's metrics, YouTube direct messaging and more. Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM Fake CleanMyMac Site Spreads SHub Stealer Malware A fake website is pretending to be the popular "CleanMyMac" tool to trick Mac users into downloading a virus. Instead of fixing the computer, it asks users to type a secret code that steals their passwords and private information. For Mission Teams This scam is dangerous because it bypasses normal security checks by tricking the user into helping the hacker. Mission teams must be careful only to download tools from official stores to protect their private ministry data and social media accounts. https://www.esecurityplanet.com/threats/cleanmymac-imposter-site-installs-shub-stealer-on-macs/ Microsoft Alert: 900K Fake AI Chrome Extensions Many Chrome extensions are pretending to be helpful AI assistants like ChatGPT to steal user data. Microsoft researchers found that over 900,000 people have installed these fake tools, which quietly record your private conversations and web history. For Mission Teams These malicious tools can leak sensitive ministry strategies or private team discussions directly to hackers. Mission teams should avoid installing unverified browser extensions and only use official AI apps to keep their evangelism efforts and digital security safe. https://www.eweek.com/news/microsoft-warns-900k-fake-ai-chrome-extensions/ Targeted Ads Give Your Location to Government Agencies Digital advertising platforms (Meta, Google, etc.) use user data to auction off ad space in milliseconds. Reports confirm that agencies like CBP, ICE, and the FBI bypass warrants by purchasing this location data from private brokers to track people's movements. For Mission Teams If U.S. agencies can access this data, albeit by purchasing it, hostile nation-states and foreign intelligence services can do the same to track mission workers, local believers, and churches. This makes every digital ad a potential tracker that could expose safe houses or team movements to local authorities or opposing groups. Teams should be careful about how they store data, which platforms they use, and should practice basic cybersecurity hygiene. https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2026/03/targeted-advertising-gives-your-location-government-just-ask-cbp TikTok Rejects Encryption for Direct Messages TikTok has decided not to use end-to-end encryption for its private messages unlike most other social apps. The company claims this move allows them to better monitor and stop bad people from harming or harassing users on the platform. For Mission Teams Since TikTok can read these messages, mission teams must assume that their private conversations are not truly private and could be accessed by the company or governments. This lack of security means teams should never share sensitive ministry plans or personal data through TikTok direct messages. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly2m5e5ke4o YouTube Expands Direct Messaging to More Regions YouTube is bringing back a feature that lets people send private messages to each other directly on the app. This is now rolling out to over two dozen countries, allowing users to share videos and chat privately without leaving YouTube. For Mission Teams This new tool creates a fresh way to engage with seekers directly where they are watching gospel content. The lack of a direct messaging capability has made YouTube notoriously difficult to leverage in more traditional digital engagement strategies, but this could change that. https://www.androidpolice.com/youtube-direct-messaging-is-going-live-in-more-regions/ Social Media Engagement Rates Drop on Key Platforms A recent study by Buffer shows that engagement rates on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Threads declined significantly throughout 2025. While platforms like X saw a small increase to 2.8%, the overall trend suggests that it is becoming much harder to get likes and shares as competition for user attention grows. For Mission Teams The study found that replying to comments can boost engagement by 42% on Threads and 30% on LinkedIn. Mission teams should use these insights to diversify their platforms and strategies for digital discipleship through active conversation rather than simply broadcasting content. Strategic use of Instagram Reels is also vital, as they currently earn 36% more reach than standard image posts. https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-linkedin-and-threads-engagement-declined-in-2025/814141/ Meta Updates Ad Measurement for Better Accuracy Meta is changing how it tracks ad success to match tools like Google Analytics. These updates redefine "clicks" to focus on website links and shorten the time required for a video to count as a "view" from ten seconds down to five. For Mission Teams These new "engage-through" metrics could help teams better understand how likes and shares contribute to finding seekers. As Mission teams begin to see these changes reflected in their ad metrics, data aggregation and reporting systems may need to be updated to prevent disruptions. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-10-adriaan-dekker-pldke/ Russian Hackers Targeting Encrypted Messaging Apps Dutch intelligence agencies have warned that Russian government hackers are targeting users of Signal and WhatsApp. These attackers use sophisticated social engineering and malware to gain access to private conversations that are normally thought to be safe and encrypted. For Mission Teams This warning is critical because it shows that even "secure" apps like Signal can be compromised by powerful nation-state actors. Mission teams must maintain high security standards, update their apps immediately, and be extremely cautious of any unusual links or messages that could compromise their ministry communications. https://techcrunch.com/2026/03/09/russian-government-hackers-targeting-signal-and-whatsapp-users-dutch-spies-warn/ Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: March 13, 2026

Weekly Marketing Rundown - March 6, 2026 Welcome to this week’s edition of Kavanah Media’s Weekly Marketing Rundown! We’re diving into the latest updates you need to know including virality on Youtube, FAQs for SEO/ AEO, passkeys for Google ads and more! Enjoying the Weekly Marketing Rundown? Support our work and keep it free for missions teams worldwide: https://www.kavanahmedia.com/donatetoKM YouTube Virality Strategies In an analysis of over 62 billion YouTube views, YouTube strategist Richard identified several key insights: 1) Virality Is Emotional Before It Is Informational The study found that clicks are driven primarily by emotion—not by usefulness or information. 2) High-Performing Emotions Among all emotional drivers, the top performers are anger, humor, and controversy. 3) Emotional Drivers Ranked by Performance When broken down further, emotional performance ranks as follows: Joy / Humor Controversy Anger Fear Nostalgia Curiosity Relatability Sadness Desire For Mission Teams While avoiding harmful anger, using gentle controversy can help your team address the big life questions seekers are already asking. However, campaigns built around felt needs (joy, community, etc.) have consistently performed well across a variety of global contexts. While apologetic or informational-type content may be useful in some settings, the data shows that appealing to emotion is a powerful strategy. https://x.com/richard_yts/status/2024937612813701486?utm_source=tldrmarketing Using FAQs to Influence Search Results Chris Long shares how using Frequently Asked Questions on a website can help control what people see in search results. By adding specific questions and answers, a site can show up more often when people search for those exact topics. For Mission Teams This strategy helps mission teams ensure that seekers find biblically accurate answers when searching for spiritual questions online. It also helps teams manage their digital reputation and improve the safety of their online spaces by directing users to trusted content. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/chris-long-marketing_seos-this-is-a-brilliant-use-of-faqs-influencing-activity-7432854487377092608-s8tD/ Better Images and Faster Results with Nano Banana 2 Google released a new tool called Nano Banana 2 that makes high-quality pictures very quickly. It can follow difficult instructions and even put correct words inside the images without making mistakes. For Mission Teams This tool enables teams to create professional gospel media and social media ads more quickly and at a lower cost. Its built-in watermarking helps keep digital content secure and verifiable while ensuring that ads for seekers appear authentic and clear. https://gemini.google/overview/image-generation/ Google Ads Security With Passkeys Google Ads now allows users to sign in using passkeys instead of traditional passwords. This new method makes it much harder for hackers to steal account information or trick people into giving away their logins. For Mission Teams Using passkeys protects mission accounts from being hacked while running sensitive evangelism ads in restricted areas. This security update ensures that only authorized team members can modify account settings or access seeker data. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/google-ads-news-week-9-adriaan-dekker-mqwee/ The Shifting Landscape of Search Engines, AI and Social Media Searches New data shows that Gen Z's preference for TikTok is dropping as they return to Google and adopt AI platforms like ChatGPT. A large number of users are now choosing these advanced AI tools to find specific answers instead of scrolling through social media. For Mission Teams While this survey took place in the US, it is likely that this trend will continue globally. Mission teams would benefit from platform diversity and adjusting strategies to including both social media and SEO/ AEO (Search Engine Optimization/ Answer Engine Optimization) optimized websites. Strategic adaptation to these changing digital habits is essential for maintaining secure and reliable connections with those searching for spiritual guidance. https://www.searchenginejournal.com/gen-z-preference-for-tiktok-over-google-drops-50-data-shows/568267/ Google Discover Increases Social Media Content Google is now showing more posts from social media apps like TikTok and Instagram in its main news feed. This change happened because many people enjoy reading short and personal stories written by real people. For Mission Teams This update increases the likelihood that social media posts created by mission teams will reach seekers through Google search results. Teams should focus on creating authentic content to improve visibility and reach more people with the gospel. https://www.seroundtable.com/google-discover-feed-social-media-posts-41011.html Facebook Web Outage Interrupts Service Facebook recently experienced a technical problem that prevented the website from working for about three hours. While the mobile apps mostly continued functioning, people trying to use Facebook through web browsers could not access the platform. For Mission Teams Teams leveraging Meta in their digital engagement strategies likely saw a dip in performance. This outage reminds teams that relying on a single platform can suddenly halt communication with seekers and disrupt advertising campaigns. Teams should use multiple digital tools to ensure their outreach efforts remain active, even when one platform goes down. https://www.theregister.com/2026/03/03/facebook_outage/ Social Media and AI Growth in 2025 According to the State of Mobile 2026 Study, social media apps saw a massive increase in the amount of time people spent using them globally last year. At the same time, usage of artificial intelligence assistants grew faster than almost any other type of app. For Mission Teams High social media usage provides a significant opportunity for digital evangelism, allowing teams to reach seekers where they spend their time. The rapid growth of AI usage suggests that teams should integrate AI tools to safely manage large volumes of spiritual conversations and automate initial engagement. https://content-naf.emarketer.com/genai-was-2025-s-fastest-rising-app-category--social-media-still-lapped-field Foundations of Digital Engagement Strategy Course May 13-16, 2026 (Pre-EMDC Training) Chiang Mai, Thailand This course is for you. Digital permeates virtually every aspect of people's lives and it should be present in every stage of your mission and ministry strategy. Join Kavanah Media staff during the Pre-EMDC training week for a time of practical training in digital engagement. This course is designed for you to examine your end to end strategy and find ways that digital components can be added or improved whether you are just ready to begin or an experienced practitioner. Follow the link or contact us for more details. https://emdcon.org/ Stay Equipped for Digital Engagement  Looking for ways to use digital tools to grow evangelism and disciple-making? Check out our other resources: Kavanah Media Blog – Learn from our experiences serving hundreds of mission teams worldwide. We share practical lessons, real stories, and best practices to help your team avoid mistakes and grow in digital outreach. Subscribe here. YouVersion Reading Plan– Jon Ralls, CEO of Kavanah Media, just launched a powerful 4-day devotional on YouVersion called "Love Where You Are." Subscribe here Ad Resource Store- Stumped on what ads to run next? Check out Kavanah Media's Ad Resource Store for ideas, templates and more! Digital Strategies got you stumped? Reach out anytime—we’re ready to help. Contact Us Church GAP Analysis Tool- Uncover hidden risks before they become problems. Use our Free GAP Analysis Tool to evaluate your church or non-profit’s cybersecurity, compliance, and governance today.  Thanks for reading this edition of Kavanah Media's Weekly Marketing Rundown! For more up-to-date insights in digital marketing, make sure to follow us on Instagram @kavanah_media and stay connected through all our social media channels via the link below. https://linktr.ee/kavanah_media Authors: Cody A. and Cherry Messimer Article Published: February 27, 2026