Tom Bartel of Validity Named Chairperson of M3AAWG Board of Directors

Boston, MA— March 10, 2026 Tom Bartel, Senior Vice President of Data Services at Validity, has been elected Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Messaging, Malware and Mobile Anti-Abuse Working Group (M3AAWG). The announcement was made during M3AAWG’s 66th General Meeting, held in San Diego. Bartel will assume this leadership role following his tenure as the organization’s Assistant Treasurer. 

M3AAWG is the one forum where mailbox providers, email service providers, security vendors, and the world’s biggest senders come together to define the policies and standards that govern the email industry and keep it safe.

Bartel brings nearly three decades of experience in email, security, and technology leadership to his new position as Chairperson. Since joining M3AAWG in 2005, he has been a vocal advocate for industry-wide collaboration to combat online abuse, emphasizing that no single entity can tackle the challenges posed by spam, phishing, viruses, and other forms of malicious activity alone. 

“M3AAWG represents something rare: competitors working together to protect trust in email and the broader internet,” Bartel said. “This collaborative model is even more essential today as AI accelerates the threat landscape. As Chairperson, I’m committed to steady execution, clear strategic direction, and expanding how we articulate and advance M3AAWG’s impact across digital trust.” 

We’re incredibly proud of Tom’s dedication to M3AAWG and his tireless efforts to protect trust in email and digital communication,” said Mark Briggs, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Validity. “His leadership exemplifies our commitment to fighting online abuse while expanding the best AI-powered marketing platform to help brands connect with customers securely and effectively.” 

Bartel has made significant contributions to M3AAWG’s initiatives over the years, including amplifying global impact as Co-Chair of the Growth and Development Committee and leading the Awards Committee. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission to fight online abuse and safeguard the integrity of digital communication. 

About M3AAWG
The Messaging, Malware and Mobile Anti-Abuse Working Group (M3AAWG) is the premier global organization focused on combating online abuse, including spam, phishing, viruses, malware, and other malicious activities that threaten the integrity of the internet. M3AAWG brings together industry leaders, technical experts, and policymakers to collaborate on solutions that protect end-users and advance trust in digital communication. 

About Validity
For over 25 years, leading brands worldwide have trusted Validity to achieve end-to-end marketing success—using trustworthy data as a key advantage. Our AI-powered platform—led by flagship products DemandTools, Litmus, and BriteVerify—helps teams drive stronger engagement, work smarter, cut costs, and grow faster. Learn more at Validity.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.