Facebook removing gray verified badges from Pages later this month

Facebook is removing the gray verified badges meant to show Page authenticity starting October 28. Page owners will begin seeing notices via their Page this week.

“Based on feedback, we’re removing the gray badge and focusing on other ways for businesses to show their authenticity on Facebook,” said a Facebook spokesperson.

The grey badges, which were gained via an application process, were primarily used by SMBs to prove their Page’s legitimacy.

Why we should care

Facebook’s gray verified pages offered small businesses an easy way to verify their Page actually belonged — and was being managed — by the company, same as Facebook’s blue verified badges work for public figures, media companies and brands. Now that the badges are being removed from the platform, marketers will need to put forth extra effort to prove their Page’s authenticity — and keep an eye out for any other Pages claiming to be connected to their company.

To prove Page authenticity going forward, Facebook recommends Page Admins make sure their Page profile is complete with up-to-date information, a profile picture and correct contact information. It also encourages Page owners post regularly since an active Page shows the company is still in business.

More on the news

• The decision was based on feedback from users who were unclear what the gray badge represented, Facebook said.
• This update will only apply to gray verified Page badges on the platform. Facebook’s blue verified badge for public figures, media companies and brands will remain.
• The gray badges, which were available to all Page owners, were first introduced in 2015.

About The Author

Amy Gesenhues

Amy Gesenhues is a senior editor for Third Door Media, covering the latest news and updates for Marketing Land, Search Engine Land and MarTech Today. From 2009 to 2012, she was an award-winning syndicated columnist for a number of daily newspapers from New York to Texas. With more than ten years of marketing management experience, she has contributed to a variety of traditional and online publications, including MarketingProfs, SoftwareCEO, and Sales and Marketing Management Magazine. Read more of Amy’s articles.