Google Tests Blue Checkmark for Website Authenticity in Search Results

Friday, 30 May 2025 07:37

Google is experimenting with a blue checkmark next to business or company links in search results to help users identify authentic websites and avoid online scams. This feature, currently in a limited trial, is similar to Twitter's blue checkmark and could be linked to Google's BIMI program.

illustration Google Blue Checkmark © copyright AS Photography - Pexels

In a bid to combat online scams and help users find authentic websites, Google is experimenting with a new feature that displays a blue checkmark next to business or company links in search results. This blue checkmark, similar to the one previously used on Twitter, aims to provide users with a visual cue indicating the authenticity of the website they are about to visit.

Limited Trial and Potential Connection to BIMI

This trial is currently being conducted on a small scale, with no official announcement from Google regarding its widespread availability. The Verge suggests this test could be related to Google's existing feature, Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI), which already displays a checkmark in Gmail and webmail next to verified sender names.

Some users have reported witnessing the blue checkmark next to official website links for prominent companies like Microsoft, Meta, Epic Games, Apple, Amazon, and HP. Interestingly, the checkmark disappeared when these users switched to different Google accounts, indicating that Google is carefully controlling the reach of this test.

Google's Commitment to Trustworthiness

Google spokesperson, Molly Shahen, confirmed that this ongoing experiment aligns with Google's commitment to ensuring users can easily identify trustworthy businesses online.

Verification Process

To determine if a company website qualifies for the blue checkmark, Google takes into account several factors, including website verification, merchant center data, and manual reviews.

© copyright Pixabay - Pexels

What is Google's goal for the blue checkmark in search results?

Google aims to assist users in avoiding online scams and ensuring they access official websites by displaying a blue checkmark next to business or company links in search results.

Some users have reported seeing the blue checkmark next to official website links for Microsoft, Meta, Epic Games, Apple, Amazon, and HP.

What factors does Google consider when deciding if a company website deserves a blue checkmark?

Google takes into account several factors, including website verification, merchant center data, and manual reviews, to determine whether a company website qualifies for a blue checkmark.

Looking Forward to the Global Release

While Google hasn't officially launched the blue checkmark feature for search, the ongoing test suggests its potential for global rollout in the future. This new feature promises to significantly enhance user confidence and trust in online businesses by visually highlighting verified websites.

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