Facebook launches free Verified badges to distinguish real users from AI bots

Facebook is introducing Facebook Verified, a free identity verification system designed to show that a real person is behind an account rather than an AI bot. This new feature responds to the rise of artificial intelligence-generated accounts and attempts to address growing concerns about fraud. The core process uses a facial recognition selfie, matched against a user's profile photos, to confirm their identity. According to Meta, the verification process takes only a few minutes. Verified users receive a check mark inside a white circle, separate from the blue badge included with the paid Meta Verified subscription. The badge appears across Marketplace, Dating, Groups, and other Facebook services. It confirms that Facebook has verified the person’s identity, but it doesn't represent an endorsement or guarantee that the account is trustworthy. Users must be at least 18 and have an account in good standing with Facebook’s Community Standards. The system will not be available for Pages o...