SafeShell Has Obtained the Google Play "Verified" Badge

On January 2025, Google Play officially rolled out the “Verified” badge for VPN apps, aiming to help users identify trustworthy and privacy-focused VPN services. As a strong advocate for user safety and transparency, SafeShell VPN is proud to announce that it has successfully passed Google’s rigorous evaluation process and received the Verified badge—a milestone that reinforces our ongoing commitment to user privacy and secure internet access.

What is Google Play "Verified" Badge : Background and Details

1. Launched in January 2025

Google introduced the Verified badge initiative on January 2025, and the badge started appearing in the Play Store around January 30. The announcement was made via Google’s official developer blog, highlighting a new layer of protection for users in the crowded VPN landscape.

2. Purpose of the Badge

The badge was designed to give users peace of mind by clearly identifying VPN apps that have met higher security and transparency standards. With so many VPN apps available, this feature helps users quickly find services that are built on trust and integrity.

3. Where to locate the Badge

The Verified badge features a shield icon with a checkmark, shown next to the app name and rating on the app’s details page. It may also be found within the Data Safety section under "Independent Security review".

4. Google’s Message to Consumers

According to Google, the Verified badge means the app “goes above and beyond Play’s baseline requirements” for privacy and security. It’s a way to foster consumer trust in apps that take user protection seriously.

How to Earn the “Verified” Badge

Technical and Compliance Requirements

• Successfully complete MASA (Mobile App Security Assessment) Level 2 validation
• Operate under an Organization-type Google Play developer account
• Target the appropriate API level required by Google Play policies
• Have at least 10,000 installs and a minimum of 250 user reviews
• Be published on Google Play for at least 90 days

Data Safety Commitments

Developers must complete a comprehensive Data Safety declaration, which includes:

• Opting into an independent security review
• Implementing encryption for data in transit

Additional Factors

Google may also consider other signals related to app behavior, developer reputation, and compliance history before awarding the badge.

SafeShell met and exceeded all these requirements, reflecting both our technical capabilities and our long-term investment in trust and compliance.

Importance of the “Verified” Badge

Trust in a Crowded Market

With thousands of VPN apps in the Play Store, many users find it hard to distinguish between legitimate services and those that may compromise privacy. The Verified badge acts as an instant signal of trust, saving users time and worry.

Proof of Developer Integrity

For SafeShell, the badge is not just a mark of approval—it's a public testament to our philosophy. We are committed to transparency, independent security practices, and delivering a product that respects user rights at every level.

Conclusion

At SafeShell VPN, we don’t just offer fast and reliable VPN access—we place user privacy, data security, and transparency at the core of everything we do. Achieving the Google Play Verified badge confirms that commitment and ensures users can continue using SafeShell with even greater confidence.
We look forward to setting new standards in the VPN industry and continuing to provide a safer internet experience for all.