What do the checkmarks next to some names mean?

A blue check is a verified account — we've confirmed it's who it says it is. The multi-color gradient seal is the official Writeout account. These badges are assigned by Writeout and can't be purchased.

Badges show everywhere a name appears — profiles, the feed, comments, and messages — so you can tell a genuine or official account at a glance. If you see an account impersonating a verified or official one, please report it.