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Bluesky will begin verifying ‘notable’ users
Bluesky has launched a verification system for 'notable' users, allowing accounts to apply through a new online form. Organizations can become Trusted Verifiers, enabling them to verify other accounts. Reactions are mixed as some see it as a potential issue reminiscent of Twitter's status symbol culture, though it's designed to avoid centralized authority in validation.
Key points
- Bluesky introduces verification for notable accounts via an online application.
- Organizations can apply to be Trusted Verifiers to help in the verification process.
- Criticism arises over the possibility of creating a hierarchy similar to Twitter's verification system.
- User verification will also include self-verification through domain-based usernames.
- Over 270,000 accounts are already using domain-based verification.
- Verification criteria remain somewhat vague and include indicators like media coverage and recognition.
- Bluesky aims to differentiate itself from traditional social networks by avoiding centralized authority in verification.
Why it matters
- The introduction of verification can be compared to events in 2022 when Twitter's verification system became a paid feature under Elon Musk.
- Current trends indicate a shift towards decentralized social media platforms, as seen in alternative networks like Deer.Social that allow user-driven verification.
- Verification processes can influence social media culture significantly, impacting user interaction and platform identity.
Bluesky's verification initiative highlights its goal to balance user authenticity with decentralized approaches, but may risk creating a social hierarchy similar to that seen on Twitter unless handled with care.