The DMARC, Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance, will create Internet standards to improve email senders' authentication practices.
Unlike previous years, when holiday email volume has peaked two weeks before Christmas, this year retailers targeted holiday shoppers until the last minute.
The ads for the Vicks Behind Ear Thermometer will target only mothers in flu-prone areas, identified by Google's database of the originating regions of flu-oriented searches.
Considering that consumers cite reputation as the most important feature of a flash-sale Web site, established brands have a head start on getting in on one of the fastest-growing segments of e-commerce.
Not all rewards need to be financial, but can involve an emotional connection or educational benefit, which people are increasingly seeking, says Ken Greer.