Meta launches free Facebook verified badge to identify real users

The feature aims to help users avoid fake profiles and content from AI

Meta has introduced Facebook Verified, a free verification badge designed to help users identify real people on the platform and avoid fake profiles, messages, and content created by artificial intelligence (AI).

According to Meta, the feature uses a selfie-based verification process in which users record a short video that is matched with their existing profile photos to confirm their identity.

The verification process is free and is available to eligible Facebook users aged 18 and above who follow the platform's Community Standards, particularly those related to fraud, scams and deceptive behaviour.

The feature is not available for Pages or Professional Mode accounts, Meta said.

It added that the feature is being rolled out in phases, beginning in selected markets before expanding globally.

The verified badge will initially appear on users’ profiles, as well as across Facebook Marketplace, and Groups, with plans to extend it to Feed posts in the future.

However, the company clarified that the badge does not constitute an endorsement of a user or guarantee their trustworthiness.