Google Play Introduces "Verified" Badge for VPN Apps

Google Play has introduced a “Verified” badge for select VPN apps, aimed at enhancing user trust by highlighting apps that prioritize privacy and safety. This move seeks to assist users in making informed decisions when selecting VPN applications.

Ensuring User Privacy and Security

The “Verified” badge distinguishes apps that adhere to comprehensive safety and security standards set by Google Play. To earn this badge, developers must complete the Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) Level 2 validation. Additionally, apps must meet several criteria including having at least 10,000 installs, 250 reviews, and being listed on Google Play for at least 90 days. Furthermore, apps must declare a Data Safety section, undergo an independent security review, and ensure encryption in transit.

These badges will be prominently displayed on the app’s detail page and in search results, helping users easily identify reliable VPN apps. Google has also expanded its platform to showcase these verified apps, making them stand out in the crowded app marketplace.

Building Trust with the Verified Badge

The introduction of this badge aligns with Google’s ongoing efforts to bolster app security and user trust on its platform. Previously, Google introduced “Government” labels to identify official state and federal government apps. This latest initiative extends those efforts to the VPN app sector, which is crucial for users seeking enhanced privacy and anonymity online.

Currently, several VPN apps including NordVPN, hide.me, and Aloha Browser – have successfully achieved the Verified status and are among the first to display the badge on Google Play.

What are your thoughts on this new feature? Do you think it will influence your choice of VPN apps? Let us know in the comments below!