Bluesky Introducing Its Own Verification, Complete With Blue Checkmark
Bluesky continues to evolve into Twitter 2.0, and last week announced in a blog post that it will begin to roll out a verification system, one that doesn't require a subscription model.
"Trust is everything. Social media has connected us in powerful ways, but it hasn't always given us the tools to know who we're interacting with or why we should trust them," the company explained in the post. It added that the domain handles will be part of the verification, where it will "proactively verify authentic and notable accounts and display a blue check next to their names."
Those interested in "self-verifying" can set their domain as their username on the platform, so this would leave out the millions who don't own a domain, however. Bluesky isn't yet accepting direct applications for verifications, and it isn't quite clear how celebrities, politicians, athletes, journalists and others will be verified.
This may be the first step in a return to a legacy-style verification system, instead of the one instituted by X, where it is simply a subscription-based model.
"Bluesky is signaling that real verification should be earned, not bought — and that's a much-needed reset in the social media space," explained Angeli Gianchandani, adjunct instructor of marketing and public relations at New York University.
"When platforms charge for a check mark, they cheapen the value of trust. Bluesky is aiming to make authenticity matter again," Gianchandani added.
The verification process has been seen to be rooted in authenticity rather than being a revenue stream.
"Bluesky's introduction of the blue check verification process is a savvy and practical move by a platform that has swiftly made its mark in about 18 months! With its growing popularity, Bluesky has seen an increase in impersonators pretending to be public figures, for instance," said technology industry analyst Susan Schreiner of C4 Trends.
The introduction of a more formal and conventional visual verification system may also to enhance user confidence and foster a safer online environment. And by proactively addressing fraud and impersonation of public figures, this new, visual cue system aims to boost trust by ensuring that accounts are authentic.
"This initiative not only protects users but also strengthens Bluesky as a reliable and welcoming digital community in an era plagued with misinformation," noted Schreiner.
The Trusted Verified status will also allow reputable organizations to verify users affiliated with them. And this is also where there is trust, but it is still verified.
"Bluesky's moderation team will then review each verification to ensure its authenticity," added Schreiner. "These accounts will display a checkmark in a scalloped circle next to their account name, instead of a rounded one. It's another step in helping to develop a safer digital community."
The one downside to such a verification system is that it may present challenges for emerging creators, as well as those who may have established a presence on a competing platform, yet aren't household names.
"This kind of system could unintentionally be a gatekeeper," Gianchandani continued. "If it only verifies the already visible, it risks reinforcing an old hierarchy. By reverting to a curated model, Bluesky may unintentionally make it harder for new influencers, bloggers, and thought leaders to break through. If verification favors those with existing name recognition, it can become a closed loop that excludes emerging talent."
However, it could be expanded to include up-and-coming influencers and high-profile users on the platform. The suggestion might be to make your mark now to get your check mark in the future.
"Although these features may initially benefit power users such as news organizations, journalists, celebrities, government officials, and other high-priority accounts, Bluesky has indicated that they will accept checkmark requests 'once the feature stabilizes based on user feedback,'" said Schreiner.
"Accordingly, we expect that shortly, this option will become available to other influencers and bloggers who are building their audiences using Bluesky as a platform to develop visibility and a following of loyal fans," Schreiner acknowledged.
Gianchandani did warn that there is a risk this system prioritizes public figures over people doing meaningful work in smaller communities.
"It can send the message that visibility matters more than value — rewarding those who are already known, not necessarily those worth knowing," she added.
However, the end goal isn't about simply enabling people to buy their way to prominence either.
"Bluesky's approach could restore credibility," said Gianchandani. "But true innovation means lifting new voices, not just validating the usual ones."
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