Twitter is working on new ID verification features that would require users to upload a copy of their government-issued ID and snap a selfie. This is in response to the rampant impersonation that has been happening on the platform, which temporarily derailed the company’s paid verification plans
The new verification feature is still in development, but it is expected to be rolled out soon. It will be optional for users, but it is likely to be seen as a way to increase trust and safety on the platform.
The feature was first spotted by app researcher Nima Owji, who shared a screenshot of the in-app message detailing how it works. The message says that users will need to provide a photo of their ID and a selfie, and that the verification process usually takes about 5 minutes.
#X keeps working on the ID verification. You should upload a photo of your ID and take a live selfie. https://t.co/3bdGgzlnZh pic.twitter.com/F4ssglakHR
— Nima Owji (@nima_owji) August 16, 2023
Twitter is working on a new identity verification feature in partnership with a third-party company called Au10tix. The feature will allow users to verify their identity by uploading a government-issued ID and taking a selfie. The information shared for verification will be seen by both Twitter and Au10tix. Twitter will keep the information for up to 30 days and will use it to prevent impersonation and other safety and security risks.
Au10tix is a company that specializes in identity verification. The company’s website says that it can verify identities in 8 seconds without any human involvement. Au10tix has worked with companies like Google, PayPal, and Uber in the past.
Twitter is currently offering verified status to anyone who pays for a Twitter Premium subscription. However, the company has been criticized for not doing enough to prevent impersonation. Some scammers have exploited the verification system to elevate their posts, particularly those related to cryptocurrency.
It is unclear whether the new identity verification feature will fully solve the problem of impersonation on Twitter. However, it could make it more difficult for scammers and impersonators to operate on the platform.
