Displaying logos in Gmail and Microsoft involves a multi-faceted approach. BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification) is a key method for Gmail, requiring strong authentication (DMARC, SPF, DKIM) and a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) to confirm logo ownership and enhance trust. However, the specifics of Gmail's BIMI pilot program are unclear, and logos may appear through other means like annotations or account setups. Microsoft offers customization of the 365 sign-in page, although logo display in Outlook can be achieved by embedding images in signatures. The primary security risk is spoofing; bad actors can leverage similar techniques to impersonate brands, emphasizing the need for domain reputation and user awareness. Achieving consistent logo display across all email clients is challenging due to varying rendering engines and security settings, necessitating thorough testing.
12 marketer opinions
Displaying logos in Gmail and Microsoft involves various methods, each with its own challenges and security implications. BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification) is a prominent solution for Gmail, requiring DMARC, SPF, DKIM, and a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) to ensure brand authenticity and prevent spoofing. However, achieving consistent logo display across all email clients remains difficult due to varying rendering engines and security settings. Alternative methods for both Gmail and Microsoft include using inline images in email signatures and setting up Google Profiles or Microsoft 365 branding. The main security risk stems from potential spoofing, where malicious actors could leverage similar techniques to impersonate legitimate brands. Implementing robust email authentication and obtaining VMCs are crucial steps in mitigating these risks.
Marketer view
Email marketer from Litmus shares that implementing BIMI can be technically challenging, requiring expertise in DMARC, DNS records, and certificate management. They recommend consulting with email authentication specialists.
2 Feb 2023 - Litmus
Marketer view
Email marketer from StackOverflow shares that displaying logos consistently across all email clients is challenging due to varying rendering engines and security settings. They recommend testing emails on different platforms to ensure compatibility.
27 May 2025 - StackOverflow
2 expert opinions
Displaying logos in Gmail often involves BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification), but unless part of the Gmail BIMI pilot program, images are likely displayed through other means. BIMI relies on authentication and requires a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) to verify logo ownership, reducing the risk of spoofing. Other methods include Gmail annotations, which also require effort and authentication, and 'hacks' like setting up an account with the sending domain, although these aren't trust signals. VMCs help legitimize BIMI. Microsoft Outlook logo display is separate and requires other methods that aren't included in these answers.
Expert view
Expert from Word to the Wise explains that BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification) allows for displaying logos in supporting email clients after passing authentication checks. This requires a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) to ensure logo ownership and legitimacy, reducing spoofing risks. However, the article primarily focuses on BIMI setup and doesn't offer solutions for logo display in Microsoft Outlook. Security risks associated with spoofing and potential misrepresentation using BIMI are mentioned.
18 Aug 2022 - Word to the Wise
Expert view
Expert from Email Geeks explains that unless you're in the BIMI pilot with Gmail you're not seeing images as a result of BIMI. Annotations also support logos but that also requires a minimum level of effort, engagement and authentication with Gmail. There are other "hacks" to get your logo to display at Gmail like setting up an accounts/profile with the sending domain, but none are "trust" signals
28 Mar 2025 - Email Geeks
5 technical articles
Displaying logos in Gmail and Microsoft environments involves using BIMI (Brand Indicators for Message Identification) in Gmail, which requires strong authentication (DMARC) and a Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) to verify logo ownership. Microsoft allows customization of the Microsoft 365 sign-in page with logos and color schemes to enhance brand recognition and reduce phishing risks. DMARC is a prerequisite for BIMI, ensuring only authenticated emails are delivered. Obtaining a VMC necessitates validating trademarked logos with a certification authority. While not directly related to logo display, digital certificates from providers like Entrust verify the sender's identity and improve overall email security.
Technical article
Documentation from DMARC.org explains that BIMI builds upon DMARC, requiring a DMARC policy of 'p=quarantine' or 'p=reject' for your domain. This ensures that only authenticated emails are delivered, reducing the risk of spoofing.
11 Jun 2024 - DMARC.org
Technical article
Documentation from DigiCert explains that obtaining a VMC requires validating your trademarked logo with a certification authority. The VMC cryptographically links your logo to your domain, proving ownership and authenticity.
19 Nov 2024 - DigiCert
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