Rethinking verification at Twitter

There has always been conjecture around exactly what it takes, or what or who qualifies for the Twitter “check mark”. This small icon appears on “verified” accounts indicates a certain online and offline status.

No doubt you would have seen a range of journalists appearing with the check mark, but there are also politicians, celebrities, domain experts and more.

But as challenges around validation and what constitutes expertise have escalated, Twitter has taken a moment to reconsider its verification process. Releasing a draft of the verification policy, and calling for public feedback, they have started with six types of accounts that might be considered:

  • Government
  • Companies, brands and non-profit organisations
  • News
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
  • Activists, organisers and other influential individuals.

You have until 17 December 2020 to submit your feedback! Get to it.