Bluesky, the decentralized social network often seen as a leading alternative to X, has introduced a new blue check verification system with a twist. Unlike X, where verification is related to paid subscriptions, Bluesky's new checkmarks can't be bought and are not yet open for public requests.
On Monday, Bluesky revealed that it will now automatically issue a blue outline checkmark symbol to "authentic and notable accounts" that it has verified. Particularly, this includes well-known personalities like Barack Obama, Pete Buttigieg, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who all received their checkmarks directly from Bluesky's moderation team.
In addition to in-house verification, Bluesky is decentralizing the process by allowing some companies to act as Trusted Verifiers. These entities, such as The New York Times and Wired, can vouch for people in their community or sectors. Users verified by a Trusted Verifier argue for a similar blue check, but in a scalloped circle to distinguish it from the standard one.
The approach builds on Bluesky's previous domain-based verification system, which allowed users to authenticate their identity by connecting their account to domain control. However, uptake for that method has been limited, with only around 270,000 users taking that step out of more than 35 million.
The new verification system intends to make it easier to identify real people and credible sources, especially given the recent search in the U.S. and the growing problem of impersonation. Though applications for verification and Trusted Verifier status aren't open yet, Bluesky plans to push them out once initial feedback helps refine the system.
Transparency is central to the feature: tapping a checkmark shows which entity verified the account. For users who prefer not to display verification, the option to hide the badge is also available in the app's moderation settings.