Have you ever been wary of downloading an app from a city or government agency, unsure if it’s legitimate? It’s a valid concern, as fake apps can pose a security risk. But now, Google is simplifying things with the new “Government” badge on the Play Store.

This badge, resembling a small office building, is prominently displayed on app listings, search results, and even the main feed. It serves as a clear indicator that the app is indeed official and from a government agency. This small change goes a long way in fostering trust and providing peace of mind when accessing government services via your phone.

And the good news is that this feature isn’t limited to the US – Google is rolling it out globally. Countries like Australia, Brazil, Canada, and South Korea are also receiving the government badge treatment. This will be especially handy for tasks like tax checks, license renewals, vehicle registrations, or paying fines – all activities you want to ensure are secure.

According to 9to5Google, Google has been testing this feature extensively in collaboration with governments and app developers to ensure a seamless implementation. They’ve enacted specific guidelines for official agencies to use government emails and have implemented additional security measures for high-risk apps like voting applications. It’s clear that Google is taking user security seriously to create a more reliable Play Store experience for all users.