Google Tests New Verification Badges in Search Results

Google Tests New Verification Badges

Google's new verification badges are designed to enhance trust in its Search feature, confirming the identity of websites users encounter. This innovation aims to mitigate risks posed by malicious links that can appear in search results. When Google successfully verifies a website, it displays a blue verification badge next to the company's name, helping users discern genuine businesses from deceptive ones.

Understanding the Badge Meaning

Hovering over a badge reveals: "This icon is shown because Google's signals suggest this specific business is who it claims to be. However, Google does not guarantee reliability of this business or its products." This statement makes it clear: **this badge is not an endorsement.** Instead, it's a confirmation of identity.

• The verification badges have been confirmed to appear for Microsoft, Meta, Epic Games, Apple, Amazon, and HP.
• Currently, the feature is only available to selected Google accounts as Google continues its testing.
• This is part of Google's broader effort to help users identify trustworthy businesses online.

Previous Verification Attempts

This is not the first instance of Google experimenting with verification systems; earlier this month, similar badges were introduced in Gmail through the Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) initiative, where verified senders receive blue checkmarks in their emails.