Verified Badge for VPNs: Play Store’s New Verified Badge Helps Users Identify Trusted VPN Apps Easily

Google has launched a new verification mechanism for VPN apps on the Play Store, allowing users to discover trusted applications that adhere to strict security and privacy guidelines. The verified label is intended to assist consumers make educated decisions when downloading VPN apps, as well as to ensure compliance with Google Play's safety and security rules.

According to Google's announcement, VPN apps that fulfill particular requirements will be marked with a verified label in search results, app description pages, and a separate section displaying approved VPNs. NordVPN and Aloha Browser are now among the apps featuring the badge.

Criteria for verification:
To receive the verified badge, VPN apps must meet the following requirements:

• Pass the Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) Level 2 validation.
• Operate under an Organization developer account
• Meet the target API level requirements for Google Play applications.
• Have at least 10,000 installations and 250 reviews.
• Be available on Google Play for at least 90 days.
• Submit a Data Safety section declaration, including opting in for an independent security review and encryption in transit

The MASA Level 2 validation is critical to the process since Google's lab examines public versions of apps, provides feedback, and recommends remedial methods for detected issues. Meeting these conditions, however, does not ensure immediate acceptance, but it considerably increases your chances of receiving the badge.

Google claims that the verified label will increase an app's credibility and visibility in a competitive marketplace. With so many VPN alternatives on the Play Store, this initiative helps customers identify genuine apps while encouraging developers to fulfill better security and privacy standards.

Source : gadgets360.com