Aquamark Launches Secure Funder Program to Combat Backdooring

Directory reservations now open for alternative finance companies committed to protecting broker relationships and merchant data

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Aquamark has finalized the requirements for its new Secure Funder™ certification program, which is designed to identify alternative finance companies that have implemented safeguards to prevent the theft and resale of submissions and sensitive documentation, a practice known as 'backdooring'. Funders can now reserve their spot in the public directory ahead of the program's official launch at the end of Q1 2026.

Why it matters

Backdooring has become a growing problem in the alternative finance industry, with brokers increasingly at risk of having their submissions and data stolen and resold. The Secure Funder™ program aims to provide brokers with a verified list of funding partners who have demonstrated a commitment to addressing this issue and doing business the right way.

The details

The Secure Funder™ certification focuses on four key areas: email security, CRM access controls, outsourcing protocols, and personnel policies. These requirements are designed to be achievable for funders of all sizes without creating unnecessary operational burden. While the program cannot eliminate theft entirely, these safeguards can materially reduce exposure and misuse.

  • Secure Funder™ requirements have been finalized as of January 20, 2026.
  • The program will officially launch at the end of Q1 2026.

The players

Aquamark

A company that has developed the Secure Funder™ certification program to address the issue of 'backdooring' in the alternative finance industry.

Christina Duncan

The founder of Aquamark and the driving force behind the Secure Funder™ program.

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What they’re saying

“Backdooring has gone on long enough, and at the rate this problem is growing, inaction becomes an invitation for regulation. This is the industry's chance to show we can police ourselves. The funders working towards certification are looking to be at the forefront of change, and establish themselves as leaders in the industry. You're willing to demonstrate you're doing business the right way, or you're not. Either way the message is clear.”

— Christina Duncan, Founder of Aquamark (EINPresswire.com)

What’s next

Funders interested in reserving their directory listing can join the Secure Funder™ program at https://www.aquamark.io/funder. Brokers are also encouraged to ask their funding partners to participate in the program.

The takeaway

The Secure Funder™ program provides a way for alternative finance companies to demonstrate their commitment to protecting broker relationships and merchant data, addressing the growing problem of 'backdooring' in the industry. By reserving their spot in the directory, funders can signal to brokers that they are serious about doing business the right way.