LinkedIn Simplifies Profile Verification with Secondary Names
LinkedIn now makes it easier for users with alternate names to verify their profiles. The platform's voluntary ID verification, indicated by a checkmark, has been adopted by over 80 million members. This process builds trust by confirming user details against government-issued ID via a secure third party.
To improve accessibility, LinkedIn now allows users to add their legal name as a secondary identifier during verification. This secondary name appears in parentheses after your profile name but is not visible to the public or in search results. This feature addresses the needs of users who prefer not to use their legal name online.
How Secondary Names Work for Verification
Adding a secondary name provides LinkedIn with an additional identifier to match against government records. While the option to add a secondary name has always existed, its integration with the verification process is new. This enhancement allows more users to participate in LinkedIn's voluntary verification program.
Importantly, your secondary name will only be visible to you when logged into LinkedIn. It won't appear on your public profile or be accessible to anyone not logged in. Deleting your secondary name will also remove your verification checkmark.
This update provides greater flexibility and control over how users verify their identity while protecting their privacy. It expands opportunities for users to build trust and credibility on the platform.
Learn more about LinkedIn's account verification options here.
