Meta rolls out free verified badge on Facebook to combat AI-generated fake accounts

Meta is set to introduce a new identity verification system for Facebook users to curb the spread of AI-generated fake profiles, impersonation and misleading content.

The feature, called Facebook Verified, will allow users to verify their identity through a selfie video and receive a free verified badge upon successful authentication.

According to Meta, users will be required to record a short selfie video, which will be matched against their existing profile photo using the company's identity verification technology. If the verification is successful, a verified badge will be added to the user's profile within minutes. The entire process will be available free of charge.

To qualify for verification, applicants must be at least 18 years old and comply with Facebook's Community Standards. Accounts linked to fraud, impersonation or other policy violations will not be eligible for verification.

The feature will initially be launched in a limited number of countries before being expanded to additional markets worldwide in phases.

Meta said the verified badge will appear not only on users' profiles but also across Facebook Marketplace, Facebook Dating and Groups. The company also plans to display the badge on users' posts in the News Feed in a future update.

Once verification is completed, the badge will remain permanently linked to the user's account without requiring any subscription or recurring fee.

However, Meta emphasised that a verified badge should not be interpreted as an endorsement of a user's credibility or conduct. Verified users must continue to comply with Facebook's Community Standards and platform policies, and violations may still result in enforcement action.

As AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated, Meta says the new verification system is designed to make it easier to distinguish genuine users from fake accounts, helping create a safer environment for communication, online commerce and social networking.