Mawsook launches verified social platform with identity checks for creators

Mawsook has launched a social media platform in Dubai that lets anyone browse for free but requires identity verification before users can post, comment, message, follow or livestream. The company is pitching the product as a response to bots, impersonation and anonymous abuse across traditional social networks.

Why it matters: - Mawsook is betting that identity verification can reduce fake accounts, bots, impersonation and abuse on social media. - The platform targets creators and businesses that want verified audiences and more accountable engagement. - Mawsook says the model is designed to make social media more trustworthy for users and brands.

What happened: - Mawsook launched a verified social networking platform that is now available on iOS and Android. - The company is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. - Anyone can browse content, watch videos, discover creators and view live streams without verifying identity. - Users must verify their identity before posting content, commenting, following users, sending messages, creating stories, receiving gifts or going live. - Founder Andrew Georges said Mawsook was created to give people a better online experience and to reward real people, real communities and real opportunities.

The details: - Verification is a one-time process that uses facial verification and government-issued ID validation. - Most verification requests are processed within minutes using AI-powered technology. - Mawsook’s core principle is “One Person. One Verified Account.” - The platform does not allow the same person to create unlimited accounts. - Mawsook supports more than 95 profile categories. - The categories are meant for creators, artists, coaches, business owners, real estate professionals, public figures and community leaders. - Creators can build verified communities, grow audiences, share content, host live streams and receive gifts from supporters. - Mawsook does not take a commission on virtual gifts, aside from applicable app store processing fees. - Eligible earnings can be withdrawn directly to supported bank accounts through available payout methods. - More information is available at the company's announcement. - Mawsook also directs users to its Instagram account at Mawsook on Instagram.

Between the lines: - Mawsook is positioning verification as a product feature and a trust layer, not just a moderation tool. - The no-commission gift model is meant to appeal to creators competing for monetization on larger social platforms. - The emphasis on real identities suggests Mawsook wants to differentiate itself from anonymous-first and multi-account networks.

What's next: - Mawsook will likely lean on creator adoption and verified-community growth as the key measures of traction. - The platform’s success will depend on whether users accept identity checks in exchange for participation and monetization access. - Broader demand for online safety and digital trust could shape how quickly the platform scales.