Social media platforms Instagram and Facebook plan to offer a paid verification feature
Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, has launched a new paid verification service aimed at enhancing the authenticity and security of its platforms. The service, called Meta Verified, is available for approximately $11.99/month (about €11) when subscribed via the web, and $14.99/month when subscribed through the mobile app (iOS or Android).
The key benefits of Meta Verified include a blue verification badge, identity protection, access to real human support, increased visibility and reach, and exclusive profile enhancements. The blue verification badge confirms the authenticity of a profile with a government-issued ID, signaling to followers and partners that the account is genuine. Identity protection involves proactive monitoring to detect and prevent impersonation and identity theft. The paid subscription also provides users with access to direct, real-time customer support, more efficient than standard automated help.
In addition, Meta Verified offers boosted algorithmic placement in searches, comments, and recommendations, enhancing audience growth potential. Verified users also get special stickers for Stories and Reels, and other profile features that distinguish them.
The service is aimed at creators, artists, and public figures seeking authentication, security, and improved engagement beyond the traditional free verification process. It can be especially valuable for those who have faced impersonation issues or want prioritized support and greater online presence.
Meta plans to roll out the service in other countries later, following its initial testing in Australia and New Zealand. The launch of the new service will not affect already verified accounts on Meta. To get the 'blue tick', users will need to provide identification or a passport, with details matching the account information.
It's worth noting that Twitter's owner, Elon Musk, also introduced paid verification on Twitter in November 2022. However, Musk has proposed selling blue verification ticks on Twitter to anyone interested, and has promised to remove all outdated blue ticks on the platform.
This move by Meta comes during a challenging period for the company, as it announced the layoff of 11,000 employees in 2022, which is the largest reduction in staff in the company's history. Despite this, Meta remains committed to enhancing the user experience on its platforms through initiatives like Meta Verified.
Only users aged 18 and above can purchase the paid service on Meta. The paid verification service on Meta is designed to provide users with extra protection against hacking and direct access to customer support.
- With the launch of Meta Verified, users can now secure a blue verification badge, signaling their account's authenticity and receiving access to amenities like increased visibility, real human support, and exclusive profile enhancements on social-media platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
- Technology advances have enabled services such as Meta Verified, offering identity protection, boosted algorithmic placement, and special features like custom stickers for Stories and Reels, making it a valuable tool for creators, artists, and public figures seeking greater engagement, security, and authenticity on their social-media platforms.
