SEBI Calls on Tech Firms to Combat Financial Influencers The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has urged technology companies to collaborate in curbing the influence of financial influencers, or "finfluencers," who often spread misleading information about investments. Chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey announced the initiative during an event in Mumbai on March 25, 2026, emphasizing the need for greater accountability in the digital space. As part of the effort, SEBI introduced a "tick mark" in partnership with Google. This verified badge will appear alongside apps of registered stockbrokers and other intermediaries on platforms like the Google Play Store. Pandey noted that the label has already been applied to over 600 apps and will be expanded to include other registered entities in the future. The measure aims to help investors distinguish legitimate financial services from unverified content. Pandey highlighted the growing trust investors place in finfluencers, citing a SEBI study that found 90% of investors find them credible. This poses a significant risk, as many finfluencers promote products or strategies without proper oversight. SEBI stressed the importance of identifying and removing fake apps swiftly, warning that downloading applications through external links rather than official app stores remains a vulnerability. The watchdog also mentioned ongoing efforts to address this risk, including the development of tools to monitor and block unauthorized distribution channels. Additionally, SEBI is working with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeITY) and the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) to strengthen measures against financial fraud. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between these entities is currently in progress to enhance coordination and enforcement.#mumbai #google #sebi #meity #tuhin_kanta_pandey
