How to Get a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) for BIMI Compliance?
Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) allows your logo to be displayed in email clients, helping to build trust and brand recognition. To enable BIMI, some email providers, such as Gmail, require a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC). This guide explains the steps to obtain a VMC and ensure your BIMI setup is compliant.
What is a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC)?
A VMC is a digital certificate issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA). It verifies the authenticity of your logo and your organization, acting as proof that you own the rights to display the logo in emails.
Why is a VMC Important?
- Required by Some Providers: Gmail and other major email providers require a VMC for BIMI compliance.
- Enhanced Trust: It ensures only your organization can display the logo, preventing misuse or impersonation.
- Trademark Verification: A VMC requires your logo to be a registered trademark, providing additional credibility.
Steps to Get a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC)
1. Register Your Logo as a Trademark
Your logo must be a registered trademark to qualify for a VMC.
- Verify that your logo is registered with the appropriate trademark authority in your jurisdiction.
- Examples:
- United States: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- European Union: European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO)
2. Choose a Certificate Authority (CA)
Select a trusted CA that offers VMC services. Two common providers are:
3. Prepare the Required Documentation
CAs will require the following information to issue a VMC:
- Trademark Registration: Proof of your registered trademark.
- Domain Verification: Ownership of the domain used for your BIMI setup (via DNS records).
- Organization Validation: Documents such as business registration certificates to verify your legal entity.
4. Purchase the VMC
- Contact your chosen CA and follow their application process.
- Submit all requested documentation, including trademark and domain verification.
5. Host the VMC File
After approval, the CA will provide a PEM file for your VMC. Host this file securely on your domain, e.g.:
Markup
Update Your BIMI DNS Record to Include the VMC
Once you have the VMC, update your DNS record to point to both your BIMI-compliant logo and the VMC file.
Example DNS Records
Without VMC:
Markup
With VMC:
Markup
Key Fields:
l: The URL to your hosted BIMI-compliant logo.a: The URL to your hosted VMC file.
Validate Your Setup
Use BIMI verification tools to confirm your DNS record and VMC compliance:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is a VMC required for all email providers?
No, not all email providers require a VMC, but providers like Gmail mandate it for BIMI compliance.
2. Can I use BIMI without a VMC?
Yes, some providers allow BIMI logos without a VMC, but you will be limited to providers that do not enforce this requirement.
3. How long does it take to get a VMC?
The timeline varies depending on the CA and the complexity of your application. Typically, it takes a few days to a couple of weeks.
Obtaining a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) is a critical step for ensuring BIMI compliance with major email providers. Following these steps will help you successfully secure a VMC and display your logo, boosting brand recognition and trust in your emails.
