Reddit has started a limited test of verified profiles, adding a grey checkmark next to the usernames of notable individuals and businesses. The platform says this opt in feature aims to give users clarity about the identity of people they interact with, especially during important conversations such as AMAs with experts or celebrities, posts from journalists, or updates from brands.
The company explained that this test is meant to help reduce misinformation while preserving Reddit’s long-standing culture of pseudonymity. Users can continue engaging anonymously and verification will remain voluntary. Reddit also clarified that the absence of a checkmark does not mean an account is fake, especially since only a small number of profiles are included in the early pilot. Well known figures who post casually, such as Tony Hawk who often shares skating videos with fans, may not necessarily seek or receive a check during this phase.
During the alpha rollout, Reddit will offer checkmarks to active contributors in good standing and to what it describes as trusted partners, though it has not defined what qualifies as a trusted partner. Verified users will not receive any special privileges and accounts involved in NSFW content or communities will not be eligible. For now, verification is being handled manually, with plans to introduce a third-party process in the future.
This move comes as other digital platforms explore ways to confirm user identities and strengthen authenticity online. A rebooted social aggregator from one of Reddit’s Co-Founders is also looking at human verification, including the use of zero knowledge proofs. At the same time, a new human verification project led by an AI industry leader is preparing to launch an app designed to keep out bots and confirm that users are real people.
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