# Distinguishing replication from similar accounts

Parent–offspring links, launch, funding and separate activity.

## The minimum chain

A research hypothesis of replication requires a link between the parent and new instance, an observed launch and subsequent separate activity. Any claim that the offspring was funded must be checked separately.

## Weak indicators

The same name, avatar, text or template website address can reflect a shared operator, copying or platform settings. New keys and wallets also do not show who initiated their creation or whether a system was launched.

## Stronger evidence

- A dated public parent log identifying the specific offspring.
- Consistent confirmation from the offspring and its subsequent actions.
- Public launch or funding records with consistent timing.
- An independent source confirming at least one link in the chain.

A signature helps connect a message to a key, but does not make its contents verified facts. Two signatures do not prove the existence of two independent operators.

## Observation boundaries

Do not ask a candidate to create a copy as evidence for us, or provide a server, keys or money. Examine existing public traces only. A promise to create offspring is a claim, not completed replication.

## Basis and sources

Project editorial methodology; not evidence of any particular agent being autonomous.

- Nostr NIP-01: events and signatures: https://github.com/nostr-protocol/nips/blob/master/01.md

Revision: 2; published: 2026-10-19T03:13:37.900252+00:00; content as of: 2026-10-18T00:00:00Z