X (formerly Twitter), has recently launched an account verification feature based on Government ID, in order for users to get verified, to prevent impersonation.
The launch of this feature is coming after it had been in the testing phase, as X intensifies action to tackle impersonation on the platform while enhancing users’ authenticity.
X has partnered with identity verification company Au10tix for identity verification solutions. On its website, Au10tix disclosed that it uses cutting-edge AI and machine learning technology to verify users in 4-8 seconds.
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Users will have to consent to X to store their ID images and biometric data for a period of up to 30 days.
On the X Support page for the verification page, the platform outlined what the ID verification will be used for.
It reads,
“Safety and Security Purposes: In certain instances, X may require your government-issued ID when needed to ensure the safety and security of accounts on our platform. X currently focuses on account authentication to prevent impersonation and may explore additional measures, such as ensuring users have access to age-appropriate content and protecting against spam and malicious accounts, to maintain the integrity of the platform and safeguard healthy conversations.
“User Experience Enhancement: X will provide an optional ID verification option for certain X features to increase the overall integrity and trust on our platform. Users who choose to participate in this optional ID verification may receive additional benefits associated with the specific X feature in the future. This option is currently only available to individual users and not businesses or organizations”.
This feature would only be available to Blue subscribers, while regular members would not be required to confirm their identity apart from their contact number and email for two-factor authentication and linked accounts.
Check out some benefits of X Premium ID verification:
• Receive a visibly labeled ID verification in the pop-up that appears when clicking on your blue check mark
• Benefit from increased trust from other users who will see your ID verification label when they hover over your blue checkmark
• Receive prioritized support from X Services, allowing you to quickly receive the support you need
More benefits to come:
•Speed up the process of obtaining a blue check mark through a simplified review process
• Enjoy greater flexibility in making frequent changes to your profile photo, display name, or username (@handle)
According to X, the ID verification is currently available in numerous countries and will soon be extended to include more such as the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and the United Kingdom (UK).
As X struggles with impersonators on the platform, it is unclear if launching the account verification based on government ID will limit the presence of impersonators of the app. However, the feature will be pivotal in helping to identify impersonators.
The latest X verification process is part of Elon Musk’s drive to add an additional layer of security to the platform, as he continues to roll out significant upgrades.