Google had so far tried its best to ensure that people are known by their real names on Google+ . But a lot of people had signed up with names that were not their real names. However , Google suspended such accounts in the past which was not liked by the users at all. This policy of Google+ created heated debates amongst technical community . Google’s intention was to keep the social network trustworthy so that users know that the account they are following belongs to the real person. This would also include an element of accountability and users could be called to explain uncalled for comments if the account was real. Opposed to these were the arguments for using pseudonyms . Political dissidents , for one , might want to organize followers around fake names . Gamers might want to be known by their handles. Even some would just want to keep themselves anonymous.
But now Google+ has allowed ‘some’ pseudonyms , wrote Bradly Horowitz , a co-leader at Google+ . Some means ‘established’ pseudonyms llike Madonna . However , Google has said that it will be the final authority in determining whether a pseudonym is established or not. If Google approaches a user with the intention to suspend an account , the user will now be able to appeal with a proof of established identity , which may include print media appearance of that name or other official documentation . During the appeal process , the accounts with pseudonyms will be non public and read only .
Additionally Google is also allowing people to use nicknames alongside complete names. Alternate names can be added to Google+ profile by clicking on “Edit Profile” , selecting name and Clicking on “More Options” .
