Bluesky announces blue checks for famous people, but unlike X, you can’t buy them

Bluesky, the rising social media platform often seen as a Twitter alternative, has started rolling out a verification feature for notable accounts. But unlike other platforms where anyone can buy a blue check, Bluesky is keeping it authentic — and free.

The platform announced it will now display a blue checkmark next to accounts it has proactively verified. These will be given to well-known and authentic figures. It will offer users a clearer way to know who they’re interacting with. But here’s the catch — you can’t buy your way in.

Bluesky’s approach to verification started in 2023 by letting people use their personal or official websites as their usernames. More than 270,000 accounts have already done this. While this system was useful, many users felt it wasn’t always obvious who was real and who wasn’t. That’s where the new blue check comes in.

Alongside its in-house verification, Bluesky is also introducing something called Trusted Verifiers. This means select independent organizations — like media outlets or institutions — can verify accounts themselves. These verified accounts will have a scalloped blue check, making them easy to spot. For instance, the New York Times can now directly verify its journalists within the app.