As Bluesky continues to grow rapidly, attracting celebrities and influencers, the platform faces increasing challenges related to impersonation and identity verification. To tackle these issues, the company has implemented new policies aimed at curbing impersonation and enhancing trust on its platform.
Updated Impersonation Policies
On Friday, the Bluesky Safety Team announced updates to its impersonation policy, describing the new approach as “more aggressive.” Accounts found engaging in impersonation or handle-squatting will now face swift removal. The company has also expanded its moderation team fourfold to manage the growing influx of reports, although a backlog remains due to the surge of new users.
In recent weeks, many users have raised concerns about identifying legitimate accounts versus parody or fake profiles. Posts questioning the authenticity of certain accounts are becoming common, highlighting the pressing need for effective verification mechanisms.
Domain-Based Verification and Future Plans
Unlike platforms like Twitter (now X), Bluesky does not rely on badges for verified accounts. Instead, the platform uses domain verification to signal authenticity. For example, handles that include the “bsky.team” domain indicate official affiliation with Bluesky.
Bluesky is also assisting organizations and high-profile individuals in setting up verified domain handles. CEO Jay Graber noted the possibility of integrating more verification methods, allowing external apps or organizations to provide their own verification services.
“Users will have the option to trust Bluesky verification or adopt systems offered by third-party organizations,” Graber stated.
Rules for Parody and Fan Accounts
To balance creativity and trust, Bluesky permits parody and fan accounts, provided they are clearly labeled in their display names and bios. However, identity churning—creating an account for impersonation purposes to gain followers and later switching to another identity—is strictly prohibited. Accounts engaging in such behavior will be removed.
Enhanced Verification on the Horizon
The Bluesky Safety Team acknowledged user demands for more robust verification options beyond domain handles. They are actively exploring additional methods to enhance account verification and plan to share updates soon.
Why Verification Matters
The absence of robust verification tools has led to user frustration, with many questioning the authenticity of accounts. This is particularly critical for celebrities and public figures, whose impersonation can spread misinformation or tarnish reputations. The platform’s focus on domain-based verification, while innovative, needs complementary measures to address broader concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How does Bluesky verify accounts without badges?
Bluesky uses domain-based verification, ensuring the authenticity of accounts linked to specific trusted domains, like “bsky.team.”
2. Can parody or fan accounts exist on Bluesky?
Yes, but they must clearly label themselves in their display names and bios. Failure to do so can result in account removal.
3. What is identity churning, and why is it prohibited?
Identity churning involves setting up an impersonation account to gain followers and later switching to a different identity. Bluesky prohibits this practice to maintain trust and transparency.
4. Will Bluesky introduce additional verification methods?
Yes, the platform is exploring new ways to enhance account verification and promises to share updates soon.
The Road Ahead
Bluesky’s proactive steps to combat impersonation and its exploration of new verification options demonstrate its commitment to user safety and platform integrity. As it continues to grow, its ability to adapt and innovate will play a crucial role in maintaining trust among its expanding user base.
This approach aligns with the needs of today’s social media users, who increasingly prioritize authenticity and transparency in their online interactions.
