A digital certificate that enables organizations to display a verified brand logo next to their email messages in supported inboxes, such as Gmail and Apple Mail. Verified Mark Certificates (VMCs) are a core component of the Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) initiative, which aims to promote trust and transparency in email communication by enabling users to identify authentic senders visually. To qualify for a VMC, organizations must first implement DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance) at the enforcement level (quarantine or reject) and obtain a trademarked logo registered with a recognized intellectual property office. The certificate is then issued by a trusted certificate authority (such as Entrust or DigiCert) after a strict validation process confirming domain ownership and trademark rights.
Benefits of VMC
VMCs offer several advantages for email communication:
- Brand Trust: Boosts visual identity and legitimacy in the inbox.
- Phishing Protection: Helps reduce brand spoofing by enforcing DMARC.
- Email Engagement: Increases open rates through brand visibility.
Implementation Requirements
To implement a VMC, organizations must meet specific criteria:
- DMARC Enforcement: Implement DMARC at the enforcement level (quarantine or reject).
- Trademarked Logo: Obtain a trademarked logo registered with a recognized intellectual property office.
- Certificate Authority: Obtain the certificate from a trusted certificate authority such as Entrust or DigiCert.
Limitations
While VMCs enhance brand recognition in inboxes where BIMI is supported, they do not improve deliverability on their own. Their primary benefit is reinforcing sender credibility through visual identification.
