Bluesky introduces user verification following initial skepticism about checkmarks

Bluesky debuts verification with checkmarks amidst criticism.

: Bluesky has introduced a new checkmark verification system to combat impersonation and fraud, a step that sees a switch from their prior decentralized domain-based approach. This move is aimed at high-profile accounts and organizations, allowing trusted verifiers to directly authenticate identities. However, the method has sparked debate between centralized verification and the reliability of domain-based systems. Elon Musk's previous actions on X (formerly Twitter) have influenced Bluesky's decision, significantly impacting their policy change.

Bluesky, a social media platform, has altered its verification strategy by introducing checkmark verification for high-profile individuals and organizations. Previously resistant to central verification due to the failure of similar systems on other platforms like Twitter (now X), Bluesky aimed for a decentralized approach using domain-based verification. This method allowed users to use their website's URL as their username, such as Senator Elizabeth Warren using @warren.senate.gov. However, this new checkmark system has been implemented due to user familiarity with similar verification symbols across different platforms.

The checkmark verification will be shown next to the verified accounts, with organizations having the responsibility to authenticate their employees or associates. Bluesky's blog post emphasized, "Trust is everything," reiterating the significance of reliable verification systems. Paul Frazee, a software engineer at Bluesky, clarified that the Trusted Verifiers feature maintains the platform's ethos, suggesting that verification systems should not solely rely on Bluesky but include systems beyond the company.

Journalist Timothy Burke criticized the centralized control of verification, highlighting potential pitfalls similar to Twitter's due to centralized authority over verifications. Burke emphasized that the domain-based verification was preferable as it shifts control away from the platform provider. However, challenges persist, like average users not owning domains or malicious actors purchasing misleading domains, posing risks in user authenticity verifications.

Bluesky's decision aligns partly due to Elon Musk’s controversial steps on X, where verification became purchasable, leading to authenticity and content moderation problems. Users found Twitter inundated with misleading and extreme content, worsening platform quality and function. X's verification change has arguably pressured Bluesky to adapt its verification approach to curtail imitation and uphold trust within its growing 35 million user base.

Despite the rollout, uncertainties linger about user eligibility for verification on Bluesky and how quickly the checkmark will fully integrate into the system. Early stages show a lack of verifications among Bluesky employees and media organizations like the New York Times. This shift may alleviate verification dilemmas faced by Musk’s X but requires Bluesky’s careful monitoring and proactive communication.

Sources: Bluesky, Matt Novak, Gizmodo, Timothy Burke, Paul Frazee