Identity Verification Expectations for Reviewers

Introduction

Identity verification is an essential part of maintaining trust and integrity on Your.Reviews. This document explains what to expect during the verification process and why it's important.

Why We Verify Identities

Identity verification helps us:

• Prevent fake accounts and fraudulent reviews
• Protect the integrity of our platform
• Ensure reviews come from real, verified users
• Comply with legal and regulatory requirements
• Build trust between reviewers, businesses, and consumers

Verification Requirements

Email Verification

All users must verify their email address:

• Required before you can log in to your account
• Verification email sent immediately after registration
• Verification link valid for 24 hours
• You can request a new verification email if the link expires

Mobile Verification

Mobile number verification is required before you can:

• Write your first review
• Add a business to your account
• Subscribe to a paid plan

Mobile verification process:

• 6-digit verification code sent via SMS
• Code valid for 10 minutes
• You can request a new code if needed
• Verification is a one-time process per mobile number

What Information We Collect

During verification, we collect:

• Email Address: For account verification and communications
• Mobile Number: For SMS verification
• Name: As displayed on your profile
• IP Address: For security and fraud prevention

How We Use Verification Information

We use verification information to:

• Confirm your identity and prevent fraud
• Send important account notifications
• Detect and prevent duplicate accounts
• Comply with legal requirements
• Maintain platform security

Privacy and Security

Data Protection

We protect your verification information:

• Email addresses are encrypted and stored securely
• Mobile numbers are hashed and stored securely
• We never share your verification information with third parties
• We comply with applicable privacy laws and regulations

What's Public vs. Private

Public: Your display name and profile information you choose to share

Private: Your email address, mobile number, and IP address are never made public

Verification Process

Step 1: Registration

When you register, you provide:

• Your name
• Email address
• Mobile number
• Password

Step 2: Email Verification

You receive a verification email with a link. Click the link to verify your email address. This must be completed before you can log in.

Step 3: Mobile Verification (When Required)

When you attempt to write your first review, add a business, or subscribe, you'll be prompted to verify your mobile number. Enter the 6-digit code sent via SMS.

Verification Issues

Email Not Received

If you don't receive the verification email:

• Check your spam or junk folder
• Verify you entered the correct email address
• Wait a few minutes and check again
• Request a new verification email from your account
• Contact support if issues persist

SMS Code Not Received

If you don't receive the SMS code:

• Verify you entered the correct mobile number
• Check that your mobile has signal
• Wait a few minutes and request a new code
• Ensure your mobile number can receive SMS messages
• Contact support if issues persist

Verification Link Expired

If your verification link expires:

• Email verification links are valid for 24 hours
• SMS codes are valid for 10 minutes
• You can request a new verification email or SMS code
• Contact support if you continue to experience issues

Account Security

Verification helps protect your account:

• Prevents unauthorized access to your account
• Helps recover your account if you forget your password
• Alerts you to suspicious account activity
• Ensures only you can make changes to your account

Multiple Accounts

We do not allow multiple accounts per person. If we detect duplicate accounts:

• We may merge or suspend duplicate accounts
• You may be asked to verify your identity
• Repeated violations may result in permanent suspension

Updating Verification Information

If you need to update your email address or mobile number:

• Go to your account settings
• Update your email or mobile number
• Complete the verification process for the new information
• Your old verification will be replaced once the new one is confirmed

Questions or Concerns

If you have questions about identity verification or encounter issues during the process, please contact our support team at support [at] your.reviews.