Bluesky has recently introduced a verification system to its platform, prompting various inquiries from users regarding its implementation. Initially announced following a leak, the system aims to establish authenticity among notable users, leveraging a decentralized approach that allows select external organisations, termed “Trusted Verifiers,” to validate identified accounts, much like the previous Twitter verification model.
In a blog post, Bluesky provided some clarification on the verification method, but as users express confusion over details and criteria for account verification, further questions arise on platforms like Reddit. A pressing query is which external organisations have been granted verification authority. Currently, the only confirmed Trusted Verifier is The New York Times, allowing it to confer verification to its journalists; other potential partners for verification remain unspecified, causing users to feel that the rollout may seem premature without concrete examples of verification in action.
CEO Jay Graber indicated that initial verifications would primarily be conducted by news organisations willing to verify their journalists. While future applications for Trusted Verifier status will eventually be available, the timeline for this has not yet been disclosed.
Users are left to wonder if Bluesky views verification as an indicator of trustworthiness. The previous Twitter system turned verification badges into sought-after accolades, often leading to discontent among users who felt overlooked despite their influence or follower counts. Bluesky’s criteria for what constitutes a “notable” account have not been clearly defined, leaving users curious about who will receive verification and why.
Another common inquiry relates to the initial batch of verified accounts, which has confused users who see certain news organisations receiving verification while others are left out. Bluesky has mentioned that verification is an ongoing process without immediate acceptance of new requests, suggesting that current verifications may not fully represent the platform’s ultimate goals.
Regarding self-verification, Bluesky’s previous method of using domain verification will continue alongside the new Trusted Verifier system, creating a layered approach to confirming user identities. This option will remain voluntary but is encouraged for official entities and prominent individuals.
The future of unofficial verification efforts, like those conducted by users such as Hunter Walker, remains uncertain. Bluesky has yet to reach out to these unofficial verifiers about their role in the new system. If these efforts become redundant, they will continue as long as necessary, according to Walker.
Lastly, users have questioned the design choice of a blue-and-white check mark for verification, similar to Twitter’s badge. While Bluesky experimented with various colours, blue was selected to align with its branding, although the rationale behind sticking with a traditional check mark rather than creating something unique has not been fully articulated.
As Bluesky continues to refine its verification strategy, user clarity and trust in the process will be crucial for the platform’s success.
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