Bluesky opens blue-check verification to ‘notable and authentic' users: Here's how it works
Blue-check verification is nothing new in the world of social media, but Bluesky is only now making it available to any 'notable' accounts. The social media company has launched an application that allows users to apply for this authentication and receive a blue check.
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Bluesky first launched a form of verification in 2023 that required users to put a domain as their handle. For example, a brand or magazine could show its validity by using its official website as an identifier. Meanwhile, individuals who worked for the company could then make their usernames @name.wesbite.com.
According to Bluesky, over 270,000 accounts took part in this option over its first two years.
It wasn't until this April that Bluesky hopped on the train of its competitors and started offering blue checks—and very selectively.
Most notably, it introduced a process allowing approved organizations to become Trusted Verifiers and give their employees a blue check. These users receive a scalloped blue check indicating their 'trusted' status.
That brings us to the present day, when Bluesky's safety account announced, 'We're expanding our roll-out. Notable and authentic accounts can apply for verification or to become a Trusted Verifier via the form linked in our blog.'
The application is available here and includes questions about what category the account falls under (such as a public figure or elected official) and what proof is available regarding its status.
Accounts not selected for verification won't receive a response from the company, however, they can still pursue the domain option.
Bluesky's usership exploded following a mass exodus from X after the presidential election—tripling in size since its pre-November numbers to over 36 million users at the time of publication.
X's owner, Elon Musk, had already begun offering paid verification, removing the validity of such designations on the site by not making it clear who's legit and who shelled out. His financial and vocal support of now President Trump pushed more users to delete their accounts and migrate to Bluesky.
This post originally appeared at fastcompany.comSubscribe to get the Fast Company newsletter: http://fastcompany.com/newsletters
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