- Bluesky has launched its blue check verification system to restore authenticity online, focusing on trust over transactions
- The platform uses a hybrid approach, combining in-house moderation with a new ‘Trusted Verifiers’ programme
- Verification is currently limited to public figures
Bluesky, the decentralised social media platform that’s aimed at becoming the spiritual successor to pre-Musk Twitter, has officially begun rolling out its blue check verification system. But unlike its rival X (formerly Twitter), where the blue tick is available to anyone willing to pay for it, Bluesky’s approach is deliberately different — and, some might say, refreshingly old-school.
The company confirmed the move in a recent blog post, outlining plans to introduce verified check marks for authentic and notable accounts, without requiring users to subscribe. It’s a decision that’s already drawn praise from both social media observers and digital trust advocates. In other words, Bluesky wants you to earn that blue tick, not buy it.
“Trust is everything,” the company wrote in its blog post. “Social media has connected us in powerful ways, but it hasn’t always given us the tools to know who we’re interacting with or why we should trust them.”
Not Just Another Money Grab
Unlike X’s current subscription-based model, which allows anyone to pay for a verification badge, Bluesky says it wants to restore meaning to the blue check by making it a marker of legitimacy rather than a status symbol. The platform’s CEO, Jay Graber, told WIRED that the initial rollout prioritises verifying government officials, journalists, celebrities and other public-facing figures. A public request form is expected to follow once the system stabilises.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over impersonation and misinformation online. As MIT Technology Review highlighted last year, the absence of a formal verification system had made it easier for impersonators to pose as public figures on Bluesky. That risk has only grown as the platform has opened to the public and gained popularity — even attracting former U.S. President Barack Obama earlier this year.
A Hybrid Verification Model
What sets Bluesky apart is its dual-layered approach. In addition to official verification by the platform’s own moderation team, the company is launching a “Trusted Verifiers” programme, where select organisations can vouch for members of their own teams.
This model means that users will start to see a familiar blue check next to verified names. But tapping on the badge will show which organisation verified that identity — whether it was Bluesky itself or one of its trusted partners.
“So, we’re also enabling trusted verifiers: organizations that can directly issue blue checks. Trusted verifiers are marked by scalloped blue checks,” the company noted in its blog post.
It’s a smart compromise. With around 40 employees, Bluesky may lack the manpower to vet every high-profile user. By tapping trusted third parties, the platform is not only scaling smarter, but also leaning into the idea that community trust can be co-created.
Still Early Days
At present, Bluesky is not accepting direct applications for verification. And while its previous “domain handle” system — where users could verify their identity by linking their profile to a domain they owned — will continue to exist, the new visual cues are expected to offer greater clarity and reassurance to users.
“You can self-verify by setting your domain as your username. We highly encourage official organizations and individuals to do this.
During this initial phase, Bluesky is not accepting direct applications for verification. As this feature stabilizes, we’ll launch a request form for notable and authentic accounts interested in becoming verified or becoming trusted verifiers,” the company’s blog post reads.
