In today’s world of cyber threats, trust and the security of online communications have become a priority for companies and institutions. That is why we are pleased to introduce the latest addition to our portfolio – DigiCert Common Mark (CMC) and DigiCert Verified Mark (VMC) SSL certificates. Below, we present a detailed overview of both solutions, their technical aspects, and the benefits they bring to your organization.
What are CMC and VMC certificates?
CMC and VMC certificates are special types of digital certificates that integrate with email protocols (such as BIMI) to display the sender’s logo next to the “from” field in email clients like Gmail or Apple Mail. They operate based on DMARC requirements, which confirm the authenticity of the sending domain.
- CMC (Common Mark Certificate): Requires that the logo has been used for at least one year or resembles a registered trademark. It displays only the company logo.
- VMC (Verified Mark Certificate): Requires a registered trademark (e.g., with the EUIPO) and adds a blue confirmation badge in Gmail, which enhances trust.
Benefits of implementing Mark Certificates
- Combating phishing: Displaying a verified logo helps recipients quickly distinguish genuine messages from fake ones, reducing the risk of attacks.
- Enhancing brand image: A logo next to the sender increases recognition and professionalism, even before the message is opened.
- Compliance with the latest standards: Certificates enforce the use of DMARC, DKIM, and SPF, which improves email deliverability and communication security.
- Automation and scalability: DigiCert offers certificate lifecycle management through the CertCentral platform, including automatic renewal and support for multiple domains.
Technical requirements and validation process
To obtain a CMC or VMC certificate, several key conditions must be met:
- DMARC compliance: The domain must be fully compliant with DMARC (policy p=reject or p=quarantine).
- Logo in SVG format: The file must be prepared in accordance with the SVG-P/S specification. DigiCert provides tools for file conversion and hosting.
- Validation Process:
- CMC: Verification of the organization’s identity (e.g., notarized document confirmation or video call) and confirmation that the logo has been in use for at least one year.
- VMC: Additionally requires the submission of a trademark registration document.
CMC vs. VMC – Which one to choose?
Criterion | CMC | VMC |
|---|---|---|
Logo requirements | Used ≥1 year or similar to TM | Registered trademark |
Visual effect in gmail | Logo only | Logo + blue checkmark  |
Validation time | up to 7 days | up to 7 days and additional steps |
Why choose DigiCert certificates?
- Security and trust: Both certificates – CMC and VMC – enhance the level of protection and boost the credibility of your website and email communications. They assure users that they are dealing with an authentic source, significantly reducing the risk of fraud and cyberattacks.
- Advanced technology: DigiCert is a leader in SSL certification, offering solutions that comply with the latest cryptographic standards and security protocols. By investing in our certificates, you choose proven technologies that are resilient against the latest threats.
- Support and ease of implementation: Our team of experts provides comprehensive support—from the implementation process through configuration to ongoing certificate management. With intuitive administrative tools, you can focus on growing your business while leaving security matters to professionals.
DigiCert Common Mark Certificate (CMC) and DigiCert Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) are a milestone in enhancing security and trust in online communications. By choosing these solutions, you invest in the highest standards of protection, authenticity, and visibility for your brand online. Please contact our team for detailed information and expert advice tailored to your organization’s needs: Contact.