Google Testing “Google Verified” Label to Replace “Google Screened” in Local Service Ads
Google is currently experimenting with replacing its “Google Screened” label with a new “Google Verified” tag for Local Service Ads (LSAs). Some users have also observed listings appearing without any special labels beyond the standard “Sponsored” indicator.
The change was first spotted by digital marketer Anthony Higman, who shared screenshots on X (formerly Twitter) on June 2, 2025. His post included comparative images showing the previous “Google Screened” label alongside the new “Google Verified” version.
Key Observations:
The update appears to affect all LSA categories, suggesting Google may be consolidating its verification badges under a single, more universal label.
The shift from “Screened” to “Verified” could indicate an expansion or refinement of Google’s verification process for local businesses.
Some listings in testing show no special verification labels at all, raising questions about whether Google is phasing out verification badges entirely for certain services.
Industry analysts speculate this change may be part of Google’s broader effort to simplify its trust indicators across services while maintaining consumer confidence in advertised businesses. The company has not yet released an official statement regarding this ongoing test.
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