Google Play Store adds ‘Govt’ badge to ensure legitimacy, security of Apps

Srinagar, May 3: In a bid to combat the proliferation of fake apps mimicking government-sponsored ones, Google Play Store is rolling out a new feature that will display a "Government" badge on apps published by official government entities.

This move aims to help users identify legitimate government apps and avoid potential security risks associated with counterfeit applications.

Google has collaborated with 14 different governments globally, including the Government of India, to implement this feature. Currently, more than 2,000 apps from countries such as Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, the United Kingdom, the United States, and India are sporting the new badge. Notable Indian apps featuring the badge include Digilocker, mAdhaar, NextGen mParivahan, and Voter Helpline, among others.

The "Government" badge will appear just below the app name when users click on the app for more details. Tapping on the badge will trigger a pop-up confirming that "Play verified this app is affiliated with a government entity." Moreover, the badge will be prominently displayed in lists like "Top Charts," providing users with quick verification of an app's authenticity.

Google emphasised its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its app store by regularly removing apps with false descriptions, misleading icons, and screenshots. Despite these efforts, the Play Store remains vulnerable to fake apps. The new badge is expected to make it easier for users to distinguish between official and counterfeit apps, reducing the risk of sharing sensitive information with malicious actors.

To further enhance security, Google encourages developers to submit proof of authorization to store and process government documents. The company also advises governments worldwide to use official email IDs when creating developer accounts, ensuring the legitimacy of apps published under their name.

The introduction of the "Government" badge underscores Google's ongoing efforts to enhance user safety and security on the Play Store. As the tech giant continues to collaborate with governments and developers, users can expect a safer and more reliable app browsing experience on Android devices.