What is Trust and Safety? How T&S differs across industries
Trust & Safety (T&S) is a dynamic, interdisciplinary function dedicated to designing, building, and operating digital platforms that are secure, reliable, and trustworthy for all users. Its core focus and operational model are fundamentally shaped by the unique challenges, user behaviors, and business models of different industries.
The Evolution of T&S
The T&S field has evolved from its roots in reactive fraud prevention to a proactive strategic discipline. In 2024, 79% of organizations were victims of payments fraud attacks. Today, the global content moderation services market is valued at over $11.6 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to $23.2 billion by 2030, reflecting the immense scale of user-generated content and the need for robust solutions.
Sources: 1. 2025 AFP Payments Fraud and Control Survey Report. 2. Mordor Intelligence, 2025.
The Strategic Role of T&S
A strong T&S function is a strategic asset for brand reputation and growth. A recent 2025 study showed that 69% of consumers remained loyal to certain brands in 2024, but 45% would switch after just one poor customer service experience. Furthermore, ethical loyalty is a growing factor, with 30% of consumers in 2024 making purchasing decisions based on a brand's values. Proactive T&S ensures long-term platform resilience and user trust, directly impacting customer retention and brand value.
Sources: 1. SAP Emarsys, 2025. 2. Rivo, 2025.
The Costs of Neglect
Failing to invest in T&S leads to significant staff burnout and substantial financial losses. The global average cost of a data breach was $4.88 million in 2024, and while this figure dropped slightly in 2025, the average cost in the United States rose to $10.22 million. GDPR enforcement is also a significant concern, with fines totaling over €1.2 billion in 2024 alone. These costs far outweigh the investment in prevention, making proactive T&S a business imperative.
Sources: 1. IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report, 2025. 2. DLA Piper GDPR Fines and Data Breach Survey, 2025.
Foundational Pillars: Core Functions & Skills
An effective T&S team is built on a foundation of distinct, synergistic functions. Explore the key functions and the essential skills that drive success. Click on a function to see more details.
The Anatomy of a T&S Professional
Structuring for Success: Organizational Models
The structure of your T&S team dramatically impacts its effectiveness. Explore common models to find the right fit for your organization's stage and complexity.
Context is Key: Industry-Specific Needs
T&S challenges are not one-size-fits-all. The risks and required functions vary significantly by platform type. Select an industry to understand its unique safety landscape.
T&S Team Builder Simulator
Ready to build a foundational T&S team? Use this simulator to get a tailored recommendation based on your company's profile.