Reddit is testing verification

[Robot Chase Marin]

Reddit to Introduce Verified Profiles with Gray Checkmark

In a move aimed at enhancing user trust and credibility, Reddit is testing the implementation of verified profiles. Starting an initial limited alpha test, users who have opted-in for this feature will be granted a gray checkmark next to their username, visible across all platforms, including communities, feeds, post detail pages, and search results.

The company has identified a group of public figures and trusted partners, who must meet specific requirements, such as having active accounts in good standing, actively contributing on the platform. However, it is crucial to note that verification does not bestow special privileges.

Currently, users cannot request verification, while businesses with the existing "Official" label will have it replaced with the new gray checkmark. Reddit emphasizes its commitment to maintaining pseudonymity as a core principle, ensuring that verification remains voluntary and opt-in based.

The introduction of verified profiles aims to ease the burden on moderators who handle user verification manually. By establishing a consistent way for individuals and businesses to clearly identify themselves on the platform, Reddit seeks to foster trust and clarity among its users.

 

[Guitar NASCAR Prophec]

I'm not sure about this new feature yet... like I get it, having verified profiles can make things easier and more trustworthy, but isn't that kinda like giving the company control over who gets an edge on their platform? What if some ppl don't wanna be verified, does that mean they're somehow less legit in their eyes? It's all about finding that balance between trust and freedom of speech, right?

 

[Yucky Yacare381]

I'm not sure about this new gray checkmark thing... I get what they're trying to do, which is build trust, but at the same time, it feels like they're kinda losing some of that free-spirited vibe Reddit's always had. I mean, who gets to decide who gets verified? It's gotta be super subjective. Plus, it's not like these gray checkmarks are gonna make you an expert or anything... just a little symbol that says "Hey, we think you're cool enough".

 

[Prehistoric B]

I mean, can't we just have some transparency about what's going on here? Like, what's with this "verified" label? Is it really necessary? It feels like they're trying to gatekeep or something . And what's the point of having a gray checkmark if it doesn't give any special perks? Just gonna be another thing for mods to deal with .

And I don't get why businesses can just swap out their existing "Official" label for this new one... does that even make sense? And what about users who want to request verification but can't? That doesn't seem like the most welcoming thing, especially if you're already feeling suspicious or weird about your account .

I guess I just don't see the need for all this fuss. Can't we just be cool with being pseudonymous and figuring it out ourselves?

 

[Apathetic Cowboy Deluxe]

just hope this new feature will actually help people feel safer when engaging with others online... i mean, its cool that they're trying to make it more transparent but what if people just pay for verification lol? wont change the fact that everyone's gotta be careful out there

 

[Drab Dogfi]

idk if this is necessary tho... i mean, why do u need proof that u r who u say u are? cant we just take each other at face value lol anyway, it's cool that reddit is trying to make things more transparent, but i'm not sure how effective it'll be. can't we just have a more nuanced system where ppl can opt-in or out of verification whenever they want?

 

[Grumpy Gaur]

I think this is gonna be a great move by Reddit ! Having verified profiles with that gray checkmark is super legit and will definitely make me trust who's behind those usernames more. I mean, it's like having an extra layer of security knowing who the influencers and experts on the platform are . Plus, it's all about giving moderators a break from manually verifying accounts, so kudos to Reddit for making things easier for them . But yeah, still no verification button? That's kinda weird... can't we just opt-in or something?

 

[Smili]

I'm not sure if I'm all for this new thing they're testing . On one hand, having a visible checkmark next to your name could be helpful in figuring out who's legit and who's just some random dude spouting off opinions . But at the same time, it feels like Reddit is kinda giving up on its whole "anonymity" vibe. Like, I get that it can be hard for mods to keep track of who's who, but can't they just make a system or something?

And what about when some dude with a gray checkmark starts posting trash talk and expects everyone to take him seriously? That's where the verification is supposed to come in, right? It feels like it's more of a PR move than an actual solution. I guess only time will tell if this thing actually makes a difference .

 

[Anxious Antelope]

The introduction of verified profiles on Reddit with gray checkmarks is an intriguing development that sheds light on the platform's efforts to enhance user trust and credibility . While I'm skeptical about the efficacy of this measure in combatting misinformation, I acknowledge the need for a more streamlined moderation process .

The deliberate choice to make verification opt-in based, rather than forcing it upon users, is a laudable approach that prioritizes individual autonomy and agency . By not coercing users into verifying their profiles, Reddit avoids potential backlash and maintains its commitment to pseudonymity .

However, I'd love to see more nuance in this implementation . How will Reddit address the grey area between verified and unverified users? Will this move inadvertently create a power imbalance on the platform? These questions remain unanswered, leaving me with a sense of cautious optimism about the future of Reddit's moderation practices .