Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched a new investor protection measure in the form of a ‘Verified’ label for stock trading apps of brokers registered with the regulator on the Google Play Store. The initiative aims to help investors easily identify authentic platforms and avoid falling prey to fraudulent or impersonator apps.
Developed in collaboration with Google, the verified badge will be displayed on apps belonging to SEBI-registered intermediaries, acting as a trust signal for users before downloading or transacting. Initially rolled out for over 600 stockbroking apps, the feature will be extended to other regulated intermediaries over time.
Google Play MD Aditya Swamy says that the initiative marks a unique public–private partnership focused on investor protection, adding that Google is keen to collaborate further on similar efforts.
The move comes amid rising concerns around fake trading apps and digital investment scams, where fraudsters often mimic legitimate platforms to deceive users. By introducing a clear visual marker, SEBI aims to curb impersonation, strengthen investor confidence, and build a safer digital investment ecosystem.
