Microsoft-owned social media platform LinkedIn has announced the launch of a free verification system for user identities and places of work. Unlike other social media platforms, it will provide the blue and green badge for free using the user’s work email address and Microsoft Entra. This move is aimed at promoting authenticity and trust on the platform and combating fraudulent activity.
Verification process utilizes Microsoft Entra verified ID platform
It’s verification system uses an email address and Microsoft’s Entra-verified ID platform to create a verified digital ID. Microsoft had been working on its own Entra Verified ID system, which is now being used by LinkedIn. The system is designed to work across a variety of HR and identity systems.
CLEAR partnership to confirm user identity
To ensure the authenticity of user information, it has formed a partnership with CLEAR, which will help confirm user identity using their user data. The partnership will help it ensure the authenticity of user information. The verification process is based on a decentralized identity and trust model between an issuer, a holder, and a verifier.
Verified Badge to be displayed on user profiles
Users who verify their identity and workplace will get a blue and green badge for verification on their profiles. However, it won’t appear next to the user’s name throughout the time. This badge will enable users to showcase their verified identity and workplace to potential employers and business partners, increasing the credibility of their profiles.
Importance of authenticity online
Alex Weinert, vice president of identity security at Microsoft, emphasizes the importance of authenticity online. He states, “Authenticity online has never been more important. We’ve seen a steady uptick in fraudulent presentations with people pretending to be people they’re not in all kinds of different forms. You want to know really that if you interact with somebody who says they’re employed by a certain company or represent a certain company that you can trust who they say they are. The need for that is pretty clear.”
LinkedIn first major social network blocked by Russian authorities
In other news, LinkedIn has become the first major social network to be blocked by Russian authorities. The reason for the block is reportedly due to LinkedIn’s failure to comply with Russia’s data storage laws. The Russian government requires foreign technology companies to store data on Russian users within Russia. LinkedIn has stated that it believes in an open and connected world and that it will continue to explore ways to serve its members in Russia.
Read more: Twitter backtracks on branding NPR as “State-Affiliated Media”
It’s new verification system is a step towards promoting authenticity and trust on the platform. With the rise of fraudulent activity online, the need for identity verification is becoming increasingly important. This move by LinkedIn will help users showcase their verified identities and workplaces to potential employers and business partners. However, the platform’s recent ban in Russia highlights the ongoing challenges that technology companies face in navigating global data privacy regulations.
