Google Play Store now shows you a verified badge for trustworthy VPN apps

The Google Play Store has over the years evolved in several ways for users to understand the apps they’re about to download better. However, the aspect of trust, has been somewhat of an Achilles’ heel on the Play Store. Every now and then, a few problematic apps get by, and by the time they’re spotted and taken down, downloads and damage are likely already done. Now, Google has a new way to beat that – verified badges.

Similar to the verified badges on popular social media platforms like Instagram, these verified badges show users a sign of trust, letting them download the app on their Android phones with some peace of mind. Currently, these badges are coming to trusted VPN apps. Here’s how they work.

Google Play Store verified badges: How they work

To get a verified badge, any VPN app on the Play Store must meet some criteria. These include:

1. Complete a Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) Level 2 validation

2. Have an Organisation developer account type

3. Meet target API level requirements for Google Play apps

4. Have at least 10,000 installs and 250 reviews

5. Be published on Google Play for at least 90 days

6. Submit a Data Safety section declaration, opting into:

6.1 – Independent security review, under ‘Additional badges’

6.2 – Encryption in transit

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As you can see, these requirements include both the technical kind and aspects based on users and previous usage – the latter not being easy to bypass. Conditions like having the app on the Play Store for at least three months and 10,000 installs would ensure that a significant number of people have already tried the app, while at least 250 reviews would ensure testimonials to add to the app’s credibility.

Which VPN apps are verified right now?

Google claims that a badge can help developers make their apps stand out in what is otherwise a crowded market. NordVPN, hide.me, and Aloha Browser are among the apps that hold the verified badge right now. With time, more apps should meet the criteria, and also get a Verified Badge.