Reddit is Taking a Step Towards Verification, But Not As You Expect
The ubiquitous checkmark that adorns profiles across social media platforms has become an almost universal symbol, but its meaning can vary greatly between services. However, Reddit, known for its relaxed approach to user identity, is now taking steps to introduce verification for public figures on its platform.
As part of a limited alpha test, a small group of curated accounts including journalists from major outlets like NBC News and the Boston Globe will be granted a grey "verified" checkmark instead of the existing "official" label. This move comes after Reddit began testing an "official" badge in 2023 for businesses that have already implemented it.
Verification has long been a contentious issue, with users often finding themselves confused about its purpose. For instance, on platforms where verified badges come with a paid subscription, the system can be murky. Reddit's approach is more aligned with Twitter's pre-Elon Musk takeover verification process, which aimed to provide clarity for users when engaging with influential individuals.
The initial group of verified accounts will include high-profile names, suggesting that Reddit has handpicked this group based on their visibility and impact. According to a blog post from the company, the feature is designed to "add clarity for redditors and ease the burden on moderators" when it comes to identifying credible sources.
However, users β even notable ones β won't be able to apply for verification at present. The intention, however, is not to restrict checkmarks to famous individuals alone. Reddit aims to make verification a voluntary process that can be applied by anyone who wishes to self-identify in the future.
It's also worth noting that verification does not come with any exclusive perks or benefits. Instead, it's a way for users to trust their interactions with verified accounts on the platform. Reddit requires accounts to be in good standing and already active on the platform before they can qualify for verification. Those who engage in NSFW communities will not be eligible.
While this move is a step towards greater transparency on Reddit, it remains to be seen how users will respond to the introduction of verification checks on public figures.
The ubiquitous checkmark that adorns profiles across social media platforms has become an almost universal symbol, but its meaning can vary greatly between services. However, Reddit, known for its relaxed approach to user identity, is now taking steps to introduce verification for public figures on its platform.
As part of a limited alpha test, a small group of curated accounts including journalists from major outlets like NBC News and the Boston Globe will be granted a grey "verified" checkmark instead of the existing "official" label. This move comes after Reddit began testing an "official" badge in 2023 for businesses that have already implemented it.
Verification has long been a contentious issue, with users often finding themselves confused about its purpose. For instance, on platforms where verified badges come with a paid subscription, the system can be murky. Reddit's approach is more aligned with Twitter's pre-Elon Musk takeover verification process, which aimed to provide clarity for users when engaging with influential individuals.
The initial group of verified accounts will include high-profile names, suggesting that Reddit has handpicked this group based on their visibility and impact. According to a blog post from the company, the feature is designed to "add clarity for redditors and ease the burden on moderators" when it comes to identifying credible sources.
However, users β even notable ones β won't be able to apply for verification at present. The intention, however, is not to restrict checkmarks to famous individuals alone. Reddit aims to make verification a voluntary process that can be applied by anyone who wishes to self-identify in the future.
It's also worth noting that verification does not come with any exclusive perks or benefits. Instead, it's a way for users to trust their interactions with verified accounts on the platform. Reddit requires accounts to be in good standing and already active on the platform before they can qualify for verification. Those who engage in NSFW communities will not be eligible.
While this move is a step towards greater transparency on Reddit, it remains to be seen how users will respond to the introduction of verification checks on public figures.