Google Play Store Adds Verification Badges for Privacy-Focused VPNs

Google Play Store has added a new verification badge for VPN apps that prioritize user privacy and security.

The badge will appear on a VPN app’s details page and in search results, signaling that the app meets Google’s strict standards.

Verification Requirements

To earn the badge, VPN apps must:

• Complete a Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA) Level 2 validation to ensure security.
• Have at least 10,000 installs and 250 reviews.
• Be available on Google Play for at least 90 days.
• Provide information on data collection practices.
• Opt into independent security reviews.

While these are the primary requirements, Google notes that other factors also play a role in the evaluation process.

Why It Matters

The update comes as VPN downloads surge, partly due to users bypassing restrictions on apps like TikTok, which remains unavailable on Google Play and Apple’s App Store.

Verified VPNs, such as those from Nord, hide.me, and Aloha, have already received the badge.

Google’s Broader Efforts

This initiative builds on Google’s previous measures to enhance Play Store transparency and security.

In 2022, the company introduced privacy labels and later added badges for apps that underwent independent security reviews.

Stay Safe Online With NordVPN’s Trusted VPN Services
Grab this limited-time offer and enjoy premium VPN protection at an unbeatable price!

Get NordVPN for $11.59 $2.99/month

The Bottom Line:
Google’s new verification badge helps users identify trustworthy VPN apps, ensuring safer and more private browsing experiences.