In the past, it was as simple as reporting a "fake name" on Facebook.

Well, beginning Tuesday, the social media website will ask users to provide a little more context in an update to improve its names process.

"First, we want to reduce the number of people who are asked to verify their name on Facebook when they are already using the name people know them by. Second, we want to make it easier for people to confirm their name if necessary," Facebook explained in its announcement Tuesday.

Now, if a user wants to report a name, he or she will be asked to help Facebook understand the problem via a written explanation. Their options to offer that explanation will come in the form of: "this profile doesn't represent a real person," "they're using my or someone else's name or photos," "they're using a name that they don't go by in everyday life" or "other."

That additional context will aid Facebook's review teams to better understand why someone is reporting a name.

Those being asked to verify their name could choose to identify with a special circumstance that will let Facebook know about their unique situation and offer personalized support. Those identifying options include: "affected by abuse, stalking or bullying," "lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer," "ethnic minority" or "other." There's additional space to write and expound on the circumstance that requires you to have your name appear the way it does.

These added name tools are currently being tested on a limited basis across Facebook's mobile and desktop platforms in the United States only. Based on that feedback, Facebook will decide on whether to launch them worldwide.

In bolstering its names process, Facebook is also introducing a new format, enabling users to access their account for seven days, while verifying or updating their name with ID proof.

That being said, the company says it will be exploring other methods to reduce the amount of people experiencing an ID verification prompt in the New Year.

"We want to create the best experience that we can for everyone," the company wrote as part of its announcement, "and we will continue to make improvements until everyone can use the name that their friends and family know them by."

ⓒ 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Join the Discussion