Introduction

Email remains the backbone of business communication, but it is also a frequent target of phishing and spam. To increase trust, the email ecosystem has introduced Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI), a standard that allows brands to display their logos in customer inboxes. However, to fully leverage BIMI and ensure that logos are trusted and verified, businesses need a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC).

What is BIMI?

BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification) is an emerging email standard that enables businesses to display their logo directly in the inbox, next to authenticated messages. The purpose of BIMI is to:

• Strengthen brand visibility

• Help customers instantly recognize official emails

• Provide a visual trust indicator against phishing attempts

However, not all BIMI records automatically display logos. Some mailbox providers, like Gmail and Yahoo, require a VMC for the logo to be visible.

The Role of VMC in BIMI

A Verified Mark Certificate validates that the logo used in BIMI truly belongs to the brand. Issued by trusted authorities such as DigiCert, a VMC confirms that:

• The logo is a registered trademark of the brand.

• The domain has implemented proper email authentication (SPF, DKIM, DMARC).

• The sender is authorized to use the logo in email communication.

Without a VMC, BIMI may still function, but your logo will likely remain invisible in inboxes that require verified certification.

How BIMI and VMC Work Together

1. Email Authentication

   • Domain must have SPF, DKIM, and DMARC correctly configured.

   • DMARC policy must be set to quarantine or reject.

2. Logo Preparation

   • Logo must be in SVG Tiny PS 1.2 format.

   • The logo must be a registered trademark (for VMC approval).

3. Certificate Validation (VMC)

   • Apply for a Verified Mark Certificate through a trusted provider like DigiCert.

   • The CA verifies domain ownership, trademark, and company details.

4. DNS Configuration

   • Publish a BIMI record in the DNS of your domain.

   • This record points to your verified logo file.

5. Inbox Display

   • Once approved, your logo will appear in the recipient’s inbox whenever you send an authenticated email.

Benefits of Using BIMI with VMC

• Stronger Security: Prevents attackers from impersonating your brand.

• Boosts Open Rates: A verified logo stands out and increases email engagement.

• Global Recognition: Trusted by major providers like Gmail, Yahoo, and Apple Mail.

• Brand Consistency: Reinforces your corporate identity across all customer touchpoints.

Why Implement BIMI + VMC Now?

The adoption of BIMI is growing rapidly. Major email providers are encouraging brands to implement it as part of a larger effort to reduce phishing and improve trust in email communication. Companies that act early gain a competitive advantage by being instantly recognizable in the inbox.

How PLiKhost Helps

At PLiKhost, we make it easy for you to adopt BIMI with DigiCert’s Verified Mark Certificates. Our services include:

• Assisting with BIMI DNS configuration

• Guidance on trademark requirements

• End-to-end VMC application process

• Local billing and dedicated support

Conclusion

BIMI is the future of brand identity in email, and VMC is the key to unlocking its full potential. Together, they provide a powerful way to increase trust, improve engagement, and protect your brand from phishing attacks.

👉 Get started today with DigiCert VMC from PLiKhost and let your logo shine in every inbox.