In an effort to improve online security and combat email-based threats, Google has rolled out a new feature on Gmail that displays a blue checkmark next to select senders’ names to verify their identity. The checkmark is automatically activated for companies that have adopted Gmail’s existing Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) protocol, which requires senders to use strong authentication and verify their brand logo to display it as an avatar in emails.
Verification checkmarks have been in the news lately, largely due to Twitter’s recent decision to sell verification on their platform, which sparked controversy. Google’s new feature aims to create a better email ecosystem for everyone by enhancing users’ confidence in email sources.
How does the new feature work?
Users will now see a checkmark icon for senders who have adopted BIMI, making it easier to distinguish legitimate senders from impersonators. Hovering over the blue checkmark reveals a blurb that confirms the sender has verified they own the domain and logo in their profile image.
According to Google, the update will enable senders to leverage their brand trust and create a better email ecosystem for everyone by identifying and stopping spam.
Other platforms introducing verification badges
Google is not the only platform to introduce verification badges or paid verification checkmarks. Other platforms including YouTube, Pinterest, TikTok, and LinkedIn have also adopted verification badges, according to Tech Crunch.
Google’s latest effort to improve online security
Google’s latest effort to combat email-based threats and improve online security is a welcome development, given the increase in phishing scams, identity theft, and other online fraud. With the new feature, users can be confident that emails from verified senders are legitimate, while impersonators can be easily identified and avoided.
In conclusion, the new feature on Gmail is a step towards creating a better email ecosystem for everyone, and Google’s continued efforts to improve online security are commendable.
