Google is rolling out a new feature on Gmail that aims to improve online security by displaying a blue checkmark next to select senders’ names to verify their identity, the company announced on Wednesday.
The new feature is automatically activated for companies that have adopted Gmail’s existing Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) protocol.
BIMI, which was launched in 2021, requires senders to use strong authentication and verify their brand logo to display it as an avatar in emails. 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 enhance users’ confidence in email sources and create a better email ecosystem for everyone.
Google emphasized the importance of strong email authentication in identifying and stopping spam, enabling senders to leverage their brand trust.
