Bluesky, the new decentralized social networking service, has recently posted plans to start verifying “notable” users on its platform. This smart decision opens new pathways for people eager to develop their professional expertise. It encourages them to give genuine expression to their disciplines and places. The initiative aims to create a verification system that values a diverse range of notability without resorting to a centralized authority.
The verification process on Bluesky seems to weigh several different factors as signs of an account’s notability. According to Bluesky, they evaluate the “overall context and public interest value of each account.” Through this process, the policy makes room for the platform to identify accounts that offer substantive contributions to the debate in their respective fields of expertise. Today, more than 270,000 accounts on Bluesky use domain-based verification, showcasing the eagerness to create and use verified identities across the web.
Bluesky’s verification system is multi-tiered. This causes some users to be deemed more important than others. This tiered approach has generated a barrage of criticism and even confusion among users. While some creators feel validated by this move, many others are concerned it reflects the clout-chasing culture popularized on Twitter—now X.
One implementation of a blue verification badge has been the subject of contention and conversation, even among Bluesky users. Other users have welcomed the badge, seeing it as a commendation. At the same time, some criticize it for potentially breeding elitism and creating a toxic competition for top honors. Critics argue that the badge might remind users of negative experiences from other platforms where verification played a role in amplifying certain voices over others.
While these criticisms are valid, Bluesky asserts that their verification system is meant to give power back to users. The platform provides space for people to choose who they trust to verify information, encouraging a bottom-up, decentralized verification process. Second, users can choose to have various trusted peers verify their authenticities. This method gives them the flexibility to not have to depend on one authoritative source at all times.
Alongside this main platform, there have been other, different versions, such as Deer — which, like several others, has already launched as a fork of Bluesky. These differences yet again point to the decentralized, user-controlled, and community-owned spirit that Bluesky has.
Sarah, a seasoned reporter for TechCrunch since August 2011, has joined Bluesky, contributing her insights and expertise from her extensive background in journalism and information technology. After working at ReadWriteWeb for more than three years, Sarah has loads of experience to draw from. Her multifaceted career includes a variety of industries—from banking to retail to software. Combined, these experiences provide her a unique perspective on the ever-changing social media environment.
Bluesky emphasizes the importance of authenticity in its verification process, stating that it seeks to verify “real persons, registered businesses, organizations, or legitimate entities.” This commitment is about more than just building a safer, more trustworthy experience – it’s about fostering positive and helpful interactions between users.
Bluesky is still in the process of developing its verification system. Its goal is to give more power to users and keep authenticity at the forefront of the platform. The community’s response will be key. That will allow the platform to better navigate these complex dynamics and create a more inclusive digital space.