SEBI has directed Google to verify genuine broking apps on Play Store with a tick mark to protect investors from fraudulent trading platforms while working on algorithmic trading and commodity reforms.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken a crucial step to curb rising cases of online trading fraud. It has asked Google to display verification tick marks for registered broking apps listed on the Play Store. This move aims to safeguard investors who are often misled by look-alike fraudulent platforms claiming to offer legitimate trading services.

Speaking at the BSE Brokers’ Forum’s Capital Market Confluence, SEBI Whole-Time Member Kamlesh Chandra Varshney revealed that Google has already agreed to the regulator’s proposal. Investors will soon be able to identify genuine brokers through a visible tick mark on authentic apps.

Varshney stated that the feature is expected to roll out within the next two months. Once implemented, every registered broker’s app will carry a tick mark that will act as a trust seal, helping investors know which application is genuine and which might be fake.

He further mentioned that SEBI and Google will collaborate on investor awareness campaigns such as the ‘SEBI vs Scam’ initiative, which focuses on protecting retail traders from falling prey to online scams or unregistered trading operators.

Varshney also underlined the need for technological evolution, saying that the regulator is focused on developing a robust algorithmic trading framework. He added that SEBI aims to overcome the operational challenges of algo trading and expects all issues to be resolved by December.

Algo trading, according to SEBI, is the future of Indian markets. The regulator plans to ensure a level playing field for both large institutional players and retail investors while maintaining market integrity and preventing manipulation through automated systems.

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In addition to the verification drive, SEBI is reviving the commodity market to boost liquidity and participation. Varshney pointed out that brokers can play a critical role in bridging the gap between farmers’ needs and market mechanisms, especially since spot transactions fall under state jurisdiction and farmers often require immediate settlements.

The regulator is encouraging brokers to help expand market access into Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where financial literacy is still evolving. SEBI believes verified digital platforms and simplified compliance can help attract new investors from these regions into formal markets. Stay updated with regulated investment strategies in our BankNifty Tip pages to plan your trades efficiently.

By working closely with tech giants like Google, SEBI aims to eliminate fraudulent trading apps and build stronger investor confidence. Verified app systems will likely set a new precedent for global financial app ecosystems, combining digital safety with investor protection.

Indian-Share-Tips.com Nifty Expert Gulshan Khera, CFP®, who is also a SEBI Regd Investment Adviser, observes that this collaboration between SEBI and Google will redefine digital investor protection norms. A verified tick on trading apps will not only shield investors but also promote transparency and trust in the market ecosystem. Investors should always download apps only after verifying their authenticity on the Play Store.

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