After launching its own form of in-app verification checkmarks last month, Bluesky is now expanding the roll-out of its verification ticks to more users, which will enable trusted, authoritative sources ensure gain more recognition in the app.
As we reported last month, Bluesky’s taking a slightly different approach with its checkmarks, with a rounded marker displayed on verified user profiles (replicating the rounded display of the Bluesky logo in the app), while the more familiar star-like checkmark will be awarded to “trusted providers” which are approved entities that can award their own blue ticks in the app.
So now, an organization like The New York Times can apply to become a trusted provider, and then verify all of its own journalists in the app.
Which takes the labor load off of Bluesky, in checking and confirming each applicant. But it’s also going to lead to a range of different interpretations of what the checkmarks actually mean, and who, within each organization, should actually get one.
Which could be problematic, and could lead to a less meaningful, valuable application of the tags. But clearly Bluesky’s confident that it’ll work, with the app now opening up trusted provider verification to all “notable and authentic accounts.”
As per Bluesky:
“To receive a verification badge from Bluesky, your account must be active and secure, authentic, and notable. The form includes more details on our verification criteria. Please ensure your account meets the listed criteria before you submit your request.”
“Notable,” in this context, is the most contentious element, with Bluesky defining “notable” as:
- You, or your account, must be notable within your field and geographic region
- We take into account various indicators of notability, which may include professional recognition, media coverage in established publications, presence on credible reference platforms, or other evidence of public interest
- Each verification category may have specific notability criteria relevant to that field
That’ll lead to all sorts of questions around who’s making the call on what’s considered “professional” recognition, or “credible reference platforms.” But in essence. Bluesky’s looking to verify the identities of high-profile users who could be at risk of impersonation in the app.
Bluesky further notes that it won’t be engaging in correspondence with applicants, you’ll only hear from them if your application for verification is approved. Bluesky also says that it may require identity verification at a later date.
It’s a pretty straightforward process, however I do foresee there being questions around its actual process in confirming “notable” accounts.
But theoretically at least, it should add an additional layer of trust in the app.
You can apply for Blueky verification for your personal account, or to become a Trusted Verifier, here.
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