Facebook launches verified badge for humans, but they will have to share selfie video first
Facebook has launched a verified badge for humans and requires a selfie video to get it. The move places identity checks at the centre of how the platform labels authenticity.
Facebook is introducing a new way to help users identify whether they are interacting with a real person or an AI-generated profile. The social media platform has launched Facebook Verified, a free verification badge that users can get after completing a selfie video check. The move comes at a time when artificial intelligence tools have made it easier to create fake profiles, realistic images, and automated conversations. Facebook says the new badge is aimed at making online interactions feel more trustworthy, especially in areas where users connect with strangers.
Unlike traditional verification badges that are often linked to public figures or paid subscriptions, Facebook Verified is designed for everyday users. To get the badge, eligible users will need to record a short selfie video. Facebook will compare the video with the existing photos on their profile to confirm that the account belongs to a real person.
The verification process is free and usually takes only a few minutes. However, users must meet Facebook’s trust and safety requirements, including having no history of fraudulent activity, scams, or other forms of deceptive behaviour. The feature is currently available only to users aged 18 and above who maintain accounts in good standing. Facebook Verified will not be available for Pages or profiles using Professional Mode.
Once an account is verified, the badge will be displayed in places where knowing the identity of the person matters most. Users will be able to see the badge on profiles, Facebook Marketplace listings, Dating profiles, and Groups. Facebook also plans to expand the badge’s visibility to Feed posts in the future. The company says users will only need to complete verification once, after which the badge will appear across supported areas of Facebook without any subscription charges. For example, someone browsing a Marketplace listing, interacting with a potential match on Dating, or joining a discussion in a Group will be able to see whether the account owner has completed the human verification process.
Verified badge does not guarantee trust
While the badge confirms that an account belongs to a real person, Facebook clarified that it does not mean the platform approves of that user or guarantees their behaviour. Verified accounts will still need to follow Facebook’s Community Standards and Commerce Policies. A real person can still violate platform rules, and verification does not act as a safety guarantee.
Facebook said, “The Facebook Verified badge means a profile belongs to a real person — someone who completed selfie verification and meets our trust and safety standards.”
Facebook Verified is being introduced gradually, starting with selected markets before expanding to more regions globally. The company believes that as AI-generated content and profiles become more common, users need a simple way to distinguish between genuine people and artificial accounts.