Bluesky Update Addresses Impersonation Concerns
Bluesky has introduced a new update to tackle a key issue related to impersonation on its decentralized social network. Previously, when users verified their identity using their own domain, their original .bsky.social username would become available for others to claim. This meant users risked losing their old username to impersonators unless they quickly registered it again. With the update, Bluesky ensures that your old .bsky.social username is retained, eliminating this concern.
Tackling Verification Challenges
Bluesky has faced challenges with verification, particularly after experiencing a surge in new users. A study by a third-party group from Cornell Tech revealed that 44 percent of the 100 most-followed accounts had duplicate or impersonator accounts. To address this, Bluesky introduced stricter measures against impersonation. By late November, they required parody, satire, or fan accounts to clearly label themselves in both their username and bio. Additionally, the platform banned a practice known as “identity churning,” where impersonators would initially mimic others to gain followers before changing their identity to avoid penalties.
New Features in the Updated App
Alongside securing old usernames, the updated Bluesky app has added a “Mentions” tab in notifications, making it easier for users to track responses to their posts. As highlighted by The Verge, the app now includes a feature that allows users to choose how replies are displayed, offering options between viewing them in a linear sequence or as part of threaded discussions.
