Imo, the instant messaging app, has earned Google Play's 'Independent Security Review' badge, marking its second consecutive recognition under the tech giant's security certification initiative. 

According to a press release, the badge is awarded as part of Google's App Defense Alliance Mobile Profile Certification programme, formerly known as the Mobile Application Security Assessment (MASA).

This distinction signifies that imo has undergone and passed a comprehensive third-party audit conducted by Leviathan Security Group, a Google-authorised lab partner. The assessment evaluates whether apps align with industry best practices in cryptography, data storage, and privacy protection. It is the only mainstream instant messaging app holding this badge which is displayed in the Data Safety section of its Google Play listing, as per a press release by Imo.