Reddit, which historically hasn’t cared much about users’ identity, is starting a limited test of verification badges. This places a grey checkmark beside the username of individuals or businesses. The company says that this feature will help Redditors understand who they’re engaging with in moments when verification matters. This can be an “expert or celebrity hosting an AMA, a journalist reporting news, or a brand sharing information.”
Reddit is testing profile verification badges
Reddit is beginning a “limited alpha test” of the verification badge feature with a small “curated” group of accounts. The existing “official” watermark will be replaced with the new grey “verified” checkmark. Verified badges on some sites have lately become a paid subscription. But Reddit’s approach appears to be closer to how Twitter handled verifications before Elon Musk took over.
The company notes that pseudonymity has always been a core principle of Reddit. This allows users to express themselves more freely and openly in the app than they would if their real name were attached. To that extent, it says that the verification feature is completely voluntary and opt-in.
This is completely voluntary and opt-in
The verification badge feature is mainly to add clarity to Redditors and ease the burden on moderators who often verify users manually. Accounts that receive the verification should still follow all existing community and platform rules and policies. For the initial test, the company handpicked a select group of public figures and trusted partners. All users must opt in, have accounts in good standing, and actively contribute on Reddit.
For now, Reddit users, even the notable ones, won’t be able to apply for certification. The company notes that it doesn’t intend to limit checkmarks to famous people only. A Reddit spokesperson told Engadget that anyone who wishes to self-identify will be able to do so in the future.
The Reddit verification badge feature doesn’t come with any exclusive benefits, like increased visibility. NSFW profiles or accounts that primarily engage in NSFW-tagged communities won’t be eligible. The tech company, for now, is completing the verification process manually. But in the future, it will use a third-party process.
