Facebook has just launched verified pages and profiles, a new feature to protect high profile users and brands. 

Stamp of approval

Facebook made the announcement via a blog post, explaining verified pages will feature a blue check mark on profile timelines, in search results and elsewhere on Facebook.

“Verified Pages belong to a small group of prominent public figures (celebrities, journalists, government officials, popular brands and businesses) with large audiences. This update is rolling out to profiles as well,” wrote Facebook's Dave Capra, Andy Chung, and Allison Swope.

Taking a leaf from Twitter's playbook

The update comes hot on the heels of Twitter launching its own Verified Accounts feature. 

The move comes as Facebook seeks to attract more high profile celebrities and media to broadcast from the platform, similar to the way Twitter attracts such power users.

Last year Facebook launched a subscription feature that allows users to follow others without having to become “friends”. Verified pages are another way of attracting, and keeping, prominent users and brands on the platform.  

Unfortunately, if you want your Facebook account verified you may have to wait – the social network isn't revealing how an account qualifies for the special status. However, if you believe someone is impersonating you or your business you can always report a fake account. 

To learn more visit newsroom.fb.com.

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