Knowing who your email really comes from is one of the great security problems billions of recipients face daily. Cybercriminals commonly use brand impersonation as part of phishing campaigns to defraud victims of their data and cash. Which is why Google has announced the introduction of blue identity verification checkmarks for Gmail users on both iOS and Android platforms to help combat the social engineering issue.
Brand Indicators For Message Identification In Gmail For iPhones And Android
Google first announced the introduction of what are formally known as brand indicators for message identification for Gmail users, or BIMI for short, back in July 2021. As part of a drive towards stronger authentication of senders in the broader email ecosystem, these brand logo displays were changed to the type of blue tick verifier made popular by social media networks such as Twitter, now X, in May 2023.
Now Google has taken things a step further by confirming it is to enable more users to verify their identity in this manner when sending email to Gmail users. In a September 24 announcement, Google has said that BIMI-verified check marks are to be displayed in both Android and iOS Gmail apps for senders who have successfully adopted the certification with a registered trademark. This change is expected to take effect within the coming few weeks, according to Google, which also confirmed that “Apple Mail or other mail applications are not supported.”
At the same time, Google has also said that it will now start supporting a type of BIMI certificate issued by security certificate authorities, known as common mark certificates, which allow for “a broader range of senders to utilize BIMI, who might not have the registered trademark required for a Verified Mark Certificate.”
Google has stressed the importance of the both moves by explaining how such verified checkmarks add another layer of security to Gmail. Such strong authentication, it said, helps users to identify and stop more spam as well as enabling genuine senders to leverage their own brands and the trust people have in them. “This increases confidence in email sources and gives readers an immersive experience,” Google said, “creating a better email ecosystem for everyone.”
It’s Been A Good Week For Gmail Security
This announcement comes in the same week as Google confirmed it is rolling out its new security advisor to Gmail users over the coming days and weeks. Aimed solely at paid Google Workspace customers, the new security advisor promises to bring enterprise-grade security to organizations of any size by providing them with tailored intelligence to help defend against evolving threats, including the delivery of actionable guidance for admins.
