Popular messaging platform Telegram has taken a significant step towards combating scams and misinformation by introducing third-party verification. This new feature enables official companies and services to assign unique verification icons to chats and accounts, providing users with an added layer of security and trust.

The verification process is separate from the existing blue checkmark system used for public figures and organizations. Instead, accounts and chats verified by third-party services will display a custom icon to the left of their name. By clicking on the profile of a verified chat or account, users can view which service verified it and the reason behind the verification.

Telegram has implemented this feature to prevent scams and reduce misinformation on its platform. To become a third-party verifier, services must have an official bot verified by Telegram. This ensures that only legitimate organizations can assign verification icons, reducing the risk of fake or malicious verifications.

This update comes at a critical time for Telegram, following the arrest of its CEO Pavel Durov by French authorities in October. Durov was accused of enabling illegal activity on the platform, prompting Telegram to re-evaluate its approach to moderation. Since then, the company has updated its privacy policy, disabled "misused" features, and shifted its tone towards a more proactive stance on moderation.

In addition to the third-party verification feature, Telegram has also rolled out several other updates. These include new search filters to facilitate easier chat discovery, the ability to scan QR codes using the in-app camera on iOS and Android, and a feature to convert digital gifts into NFTs. These updates demonstrate Telegram's commitment to enhancing user experience and security.

The introduction of third-party verification is a significant step forward for Telegram, as it seeks to establish itself as a trusted and secure platform. By empowering official companies and services to verify accounts and chats, Telegram is taking a proactive approach to combating scams and misinformation. As the platform continues to grow, with total revenue surpassing $1 billion last year, this feature is likely to play a critical role in maintaining user trust and confidence.

In the broader context, Telegram's move towards third-party verification reflects a growing trend in the tech industry. As platforms face increasing pressure to address issues of misinformation and security, features like this are becoming essential for building trust with users. With its latest update, Telegram is setting a new standard for messaging platforms and demonstrating its commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for its users.