Bluesky Launches Blue Check Verification to Combat Impersonation

Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform, has announced the rollout of a new verification system featuring blue checkmarks for authentic and notable accounts.

Previously, Bluesky allowed users to self-verify by linking their domain to their username, a method adopted by over 270,000 accounts. While effective, this approach lacked a clear visual indicator of authenticity. The new blue checkmarks serve as an easily recognizable symbol, indicating that an account has been verified by Bluesky or a Trusted Verifier.

In addition to Bluesky’s own verification, select organizations are now designated as Trusted Verifiers, empowered to authenticate users affiliated with them. These organizations are marked with a distinctive scalloped blue checkmark.

For instance, The New York Times can now verify its journalists directly within the app. Bluesky’s moderation team reviews each verification to ensure authenticity.

Users can tap on a verified account’s blue checkmark to see which organization granted the verification. Moreover, the platform offers an option to hide verification badges through the app’s settings, providing users with control over their experience.

While Bluesky is not currently accepting direct applications for verification, the platform plans to introduce a request form in the near future. In the meantime, users are encouraged to self-verify by setting their domain as their username.

This move aligns with Bluesky’s broader mission to create a decentralized and trustworthy social media environment. By introducing a clear and reliable verification system, Bluesky aims to enhance user confidence and create a safer online community.