Introduction – Grey Verification Badges
Reddit has started a new program where they are testing verified profiles, with the aim of minimizing misinformation. This test adds a gray checkmark next to the usernames of well-known personalities, experts, and reporters, helping users know who they are talking to — without destroying Reddit’s core culture of anonymity.
What is Reddit testing?
Reddit is placing a verified checkmark next to the usernames of its selected users. Reddit says this is not a paid verification like Twitter or Meta; it’s not just a status symbol, but an identity verification.
It simply confirms that the person is who they claim to be — such as a celebrity hosting an AMA, a tech expert posting updates, or a journalist reporting live news.
Why does Reddit need verification now?
AI-generated content and misinformation are spreading rapidly on social platforms. Reddit believes that these badges will help, which is why they are implementing verification.
This will help moderators verify identities quickly
It will increase trust in expert posts
It will reduce fake news and scams
It will support communities that rely on trusted voices
Reddit believes this feature is like the “old internet days”, when verification meant trust in users, not a paid subscription.
How does this program work?
Reddit is launching a small alpha test. Currently:
- Public figures
- Well-known creators
- Journalists
- Trusted brands
- Official partners
…are included.
Eligibility for Reddit Verification (for this test phase)
Users must:
- Opt-in
- Have a good account standing
- Be an active contributor
- Not be an NSFW creator
NSFW accounts participate in adult subreddits. Those users are not eligible.
What Verified Users Get
A gray checkmark across Reddit (profile, comments, communities, search, feeds)
Users get access to Reddit Pro features.
What Businesses Get
The previous checkmark will be replaced with a gray checkmark.
New profile flares for AMAs, announcements, and official posts
Verification is not mandatory
It’s important to note:
Most users do not have a verification badge. But this does not mean at all that those users are fake. A key part of Reddit’s verification process is anonymity (which fuels the spread of fake news).
Even celebrities like Tony Hawk, who casually chat on skateboarding subreddits, may not choose to be verified.
Manual Verification (for now)
Reddit is doing this verification manually, and they say that in the future, a third-party verification process will be used. Why this is important now:
This move comes at an interesting time:
Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian is relaunching Digg.
New platforms want bot-free, human-first communities.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is launching a project called “World,” which focuses on human verification.
Fake news content has become a global concern.
Reddit’s verification program is verifying the online presence of real people. This is a part of a larger tech movement.
What’s next?
Reddit says this test will expand gradually based on community feedback.
The platform wants to:
Avoid privacy risks
Avoid elitism
Maintain Reddit’s open culture
Provide clarity, not status
If adopted widely, Reddit’s verification could become a powerful tool against misinformation — especially during breaking news, AMAs, and other events.
FAQs (Reddit Verification Grey Checkmark)
1. What is Reddit’s grey checkmark?
A new Grey Checkmark badge showing a profile is verified by Reddit and 100% trusted.
2. Is Reddit verification paid?
No. It’s free and not tied to subscriptions like Twitter/X or Meta.
3. Can users apply for verification?
Not yet. Only Reddit-selected users can currently opt in.
4. Do verified users get special features?
Only identity confirmation and access to Reddit Pro tools — no extra privileges.
5. Will all celebrities get a checkmark?
Not necessarily. Reddit is verifying only selected profiles during the alpha Test.
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