Bluesky has unveiled a fresh update intended to tackle the persistent challenges of cybersquatting and fraudulent accounts that have affected the platform.

As part of this update, which was released on Thursday evening, users who authenticate their accounts with a domain name will now automatically keep their default username. This adjustment aims to stop impersonators from taking over usernames.

### Key Features of the Update
Bluesky shared details of the update in **App Version 1.96**, which encompasses various improvements:
– A new **Mentions tab** in Notifications to aid users in monitoring replies and discussions more proficiently.
– A functionality that secures a user’s default username (e.g., `@username.bsky.social`) upon verifying their account with a domain name.
– Enhanced features regarding the app’s overall operation.

### SEE ALSO:
[I’ve barely used Bluesky, and the engagement already feels more real](https://mashable.com/article/bluesky-engagement-vs-twitter)

### Tackling Bluesky’s Fake Account Challenge
Bluesky has witnessed considerable expansion lately, establishing itself as an option for users dissatisfied with X (formerly Twitter). Since the U.S. election, millions have turned to the platform, searching for a more positive online atmosphere and authentic interactions. Bluesky now counts over 25 million users, with 5 million signing up in just the last month.

Nonetheless, this swift growth has also resulted in an increase in fake accounts and impersonations. In the past, scammers and trolls could exploit a loophole by claiming the default username allocated to users at sign-up (e.g., `@username.bsky.social`) after those users transitioned to a verified domain name. For instance, an entity like Wikipedia could authenticate its account by changing its handle to `@wikipedia.org` using credentials from the domain registrar. However, malicious actors could then capture the initial `@wikipedia.bsky.social` username and pose as the account.

With the newest update, users who authenticate their accounts using a domain name will automatically maintain their default `@username.bsky.social` handle. While this doesn’t fully eliminate the risk of cybersquatters acquiring someone’s domain name to use it on Bluesky, it significantly addresses a large part of the impersonation dilemma. This update builds upon Bluesky’s previous initiatives against fake accounts, such as a “[more aggressive](https://mashable.com/article/bluesky-parody-account-crack-down)” approach to labeling parody accounts.

### Additional Features in the Update
Beyond the username reservation feature, the update also includes:
– A **Mentions tab** in the Notifications area, simplifying the process for users to track replies and discussions.
– A new option for prioritizing replies, improving the overall user experience.

Bluesky continues to enhance its platform as it expands, with the goal of providing a more secure and engaging environment for its users.