Understanding Device Verification and the Verified Badge

• Letter Star Team
security getting-started

You’ve probably noticed some players have a golden verified badge next to their names. Here’s what it means and how to get yours.

What is the Verified Badge?

The verified badge (✓) indicates that a player has completed Apple’s App Attest verification process. This badge shows:

  • The player is using a genuine, unmodified Letter Star app
  • Their device hasn’t been jailbroken or tampered with
  • Their scores are cryptographically signed by their device
  • They’re playing fairly within the rules

Why Verification Matters

In competitive leaderboards, trust is everything. Verification ensures:

For You:

  • Your achievements are recognized as legitimate
  • You appear in verified-only leaderboard views
  • Your profile gets priority in community features

For The Community:

  • Fair competition for everyone
  • Confidence in leaderboard accuracy
  • Protection against cheating and manipulation

How Verification Works

The process is automatic and happens in the background:

  1. App Installation: When you first install Letter Star, the app generates a unique cryptographic key on your device
  2. Attestation Request: The app asks Apple’s servers to attest to your device’s authenticity
  3. Apple’s Check: Apple verifies your device is genuine and the app hasn’t been modified
  4. Key Registration: Your device’s key is registered with Letter Star servers
  5. Game Signing: Every game you play is signed with this key

This all happens without sending any personal information to Apple or Letter Star!

Want to learn more about how this technology works? Check out our detailed guide to App Attest.

Timeline for Verification

Verification isn’t instant. Here’s what to expect:

Day 1-2: Initial attestation request sent Day 2-7: Apple processes attestation (varies by device) Day 7+: Badge appears on your profile

Troubleshooting

Badge not appearing after 7 days?

Common issues:

  • Device is jailbroken (verification won’t work)
  • Modified app installation (must use official App Store version)
  • iOS version too old (requires iOS 14+)
  • Network issues during attestation (try reinstalling)

Lost your badge?

This happens if:

  • You jailbreak your device
  • You modify the app
  • You restore from an old backup
  • Multiple accounts on the same device (against terms)

Verified vs Unverified Leaderboards

Some leaderboard views filter by verification status:

Verified Leaderboard:

  • Only verified players
  • Highest trust level
  • Featured in promotions

Open Leaderboard:

  • All players
  • Includes new players still waiting for verification
  • Default view

Do You Need It?

Verification is not required to play or compete! However:

✅ Required for:

  • Top 100 all-time rankings
  • Tournament participation
  • Community features and sharing

❌ Not required for:

  • Playing daily puzzles
  • Appearing on leaderboards
  • Tracking your stats
  • Practice mode

Privacy Reminder

Device verification is privacy-first:

  • No personal information shared
  • Device attestation is cryptographic, not identifying
  • You remain anonymous
  • No tracking across apps or devices

The verified badge is your stamp of authenticity in competitive play. It’s automatic, free, and protects the integrity of the leaderboards while keeping your privacy intact.

Questions about verification? Check our FAQ or contact support.