Verification on Mastodon and the wider Fediverse works differently to most social networks. Symbols like or ✅ or the word "verified" are NOT verifications as anyone can add them to their profiles.

Verification on here works through special links on an account's official website. You can find out how to create a verified link in this guide:

➡️ fedi.tips/how-do-i-verify-my-a…

For example we know @arstechnica is official as their profile has a verified link to their website.

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How do I verify my account on Mastodon and the Fediverse? | Fedi.Tips – An Unofficial Guide to Mastodon and the Fediverse

An unofficial guide to using Mastodon and the Fediverse

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