Why Verification Matters in a Directory
A directory is only as trustworthy as the listings it contains. Without verification, anyone can create a fake profile, list a non-existent business, or impersonate a real professional. Verification is the mechanism that separates a reliable directory from an untrustworthy one.
SearchByNear uses a four-level verification system, each adding trust points to a profile's score. Understanding these levels helps both businesses and customers know what each badge means.
Level 1: Mobile OTP Verification (+10 points)
The simplest form of verification. When a user registers or when a profile is claimed, the platform sends a One-Time Password (OTP) to the listed phone number. The user enters this code to confirm that they have access to that number.
What it proves: The phone number listed on the profile is real and accessible.
Who can do it: Any registered user, for their own account or when claiming a profile.
How to do it: Go to the Verifications page, click "Send OTP" next to your mobile number, and enter the 6-digit code you receive.
Level 2: Email Verification (+10 points)
After adding an email address to your account, the platform sends a verification link to that email. Clicking the link confirms it is a valid, accessible email address.
What it proves: The email address on the account is real and accessible.
Who can do it: Any registered user who has added an email address.
How to do it: Go to the Verifications page, click "Send Verification Link" next to your email address.
Level 3: KYC Verification (+30 points)
KYC stands for Know Your Customer. This level requires uploading identity documents โ typically a National ID card (NID) or passport. The front, back, and a selfie are uploaded and reviewed by the SearchByNear admin team.
What it proves: The profile belongs to a real, identified individual.
Who can do it: Individual users (not organisations). Documents must be valid and readable.
Typical processing time: 1โ3 business days.
What happens after approval: A KYC verified badge appears on the profile, and the trust score increases by 30 points.
Level 4: Business Verification (+50 points)
The highest verification level, designed for businesses, shops, clinics, and organisations. This requires uploading:
What it proves: The business is legally registered and financially active.
Who can do it: Any account that has a business profile.
Typical processing time: 2โ5 business days.
What happens after approval: A Business Verified badge appears on the profile, and the trust score increases by 50 points.
The Trust Score
The Trust Score is a number out of 100 that combines all verification signals. Maximum scores:
A profile with all four verifications completed has a trust score of 100.
In addition to verification, points can also come from profile completeness (adding photo, description, location) and community feedback (future feature).
Why Customers Should Look for Verified Profiles
When searching for a doctor, lawyer, or any service provider, always check:
A business with a trust score of 80+ has completed most verification steps and is significantly more likely to be legitimate.
Conclusion
Verification is not a bureaucratic hurdle โ it is a trust signal. For businesses, completing all four verification levels puts you ahead of unverified competitors and builds real customer confidence. For customers, the verification system gives you a simple, reliable way to distinguish trustworthy listings from unknown ones.