Google Play Store displays a badge indicating government affiliation in 14 countries. This badge appears above the Install button on the app listing, distinguishing genuine apps from potential impersonations.
Note: Google introduced a Google Play update that alerts users if an app is linked to a government entity. This update addresses the widespread problem of fake apps, making it easier to identify genuine ones, especially since official government apps are often impersonated.
How to Find Government Apps?
Update Your Google Play Store
Play Store version at least 40.7.29-31 is required to access this feature. To update Play Store, Follow these steps to make sure you have the latest version:
- Open the Google Play Store on your Android device and tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
- In Settings, tap About > Update Play Store. If the Play Store is already up to date, no further action is needed.
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Finding Government Apps on Google Play Store
- Open the Google Play Store and search for a government-affiliated app, like NASA.
- When you open the app listing, look for a Government icon above the Install button, indicating its government affiliation.
You can follow these steps to verify other apps and avoid falling for impersonated government apps.
Supported Countries
Google has rolled out this feature in several countries, such as the US, Pakistan, India, South Korea, the UK, Brazil, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Mexico, Japan, and Indonesia. More than 2000 government apps now display the Government badge on Google Play.
For example, in the US, apps like NASA, Mobile Passport Control, and CBP One have received the badge. Similarly, in Pakistan, apps like Pakistan Citizen Portal and ePay Punjab now feature the badge. This initiative enhances user safety globally, protecting millions from potential impersonation.
Bonus: Extra Precautions to Consider
- If an app asserts government affiliation but lacks the Government badge, it might be Fake—users should steer clear in such cases.
- Users should view reviews and download counts; counterfeit apps usually have low reviews and downloads.
- Always authenticate the app’s publisher, listed beneath the app name in the description.
- Refrain from obtaining government apps from random online links; downloading APK files from unregistered sites can carry risks.
FAQs
Currently, not all government apps on the Play Store have been officially badged by the Government.
Once you confirm the app’s affiliation with a government entity, you can authorize it to access the necessary permissions for proper functionality.
