Last month, Google made headlines by marking businesses with fake reviews on maps, and now it is testing a new verification feature in its search engine. This verification feature aims to prevent users from clicking on links to fake or fraudulent websites. According to some users, there are blue checkmarks next to business links in Google search results, indicating that the company is legitimate.
According to Google public relations spokesperson Molly Shaheen, who spoke to The Verge; the company is regularly testing features that will help customers identify trustworthy businesses in the online space. In this context, Google is currently conducting a small test showing checkmarks next to certain businesses.
Some users, including journalist Jay Peters, have reported seeing checkmarks next to official site links for companies such as Microsoft, Meta, Epic Games, Apple, Amazon, and HP. It is worth noting that the test is currently being conducted with a limited number of users.
Users have shared that hovering over a checkmark brings up a message that says, “Google’s signals indicate that this business is the stated business.” This message is based on various factors, including website verification, Merchant Center data, and manual reviews.
The feature is said to be an extension of the Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) feature. Additionally, it is important to note that Google has not yet officially announced the search verification checkmarks. It remains unclear when this feature will be made available to a broader audience.
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Arwen Volkov, A graduate of the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland with a degree in International Finance, Arwen specializes in sustainable finance and green investments. She began her career at an investment bank in London, where she developed financing models for environmentally friendly projects. Known for her analytical and strategic thinking skills, Arwen is a sought-after financial consultant. In her spare time, she mentors fintech startups, contributing to their growth strategies. She is also a nature enthusiast and an amateur photographer.
