Meta launches free Facebook Verified badge using facial scan

Meta has launched a new free verification program for Facebook users, designed to confirm that a profile is operated by a real person rather than an artificial intelligence. The feature, called Facebook Verified, began rolling out on July 24, 2026, and will be available globally after an initial phase in select markets.

The program allows eligible users to obtain a white verification badge by completing a facial recognition process. To qualify, users must be at least 18 years old and have an account in good standing with Facebook's community standards. The verification requires recording a short selfie video, which the platform's systems then compare to the user's existing profile photos to confirm a match. Meta states the process typically takes only a few minutes and is a one-time requirement.

Once approved, the white check mark will appear on a user's profile and will be visible within Facebook Marketplace, Facebook Dating, and Facebook Groups. The company has confirmed it plans to extend the badge's visibility to posts in the main News Feed in the future. The feature is not available for Pages or accounts using Facebook's ProMode.

This new system is distinct from Meta's...