Instagram, Facebook begin selling blue ticks

In a significant shift of policy, Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, now offers blue ticks for sale on the platforms. Previously, the privilege of having a blue tick verification badge was reserved for media professionals, influencers, celebrities, and politicians. However, with this new development, anyone can now obtain a blue tick on their profile by paying a fee.

Initially introduced in the United States, the blue checkmark serves as an emblem of authenticity, indicating that the account belongs to a public figure, brand, or celebrity. Meta’s service aims to cater to creators seeking to establish their credibility on social media, safeguard their accounts against impersonation, and access additional features and support. To purchase a blue tick on Instagram, individuals must be at least 18 years old, submit their Photo ID, and undergo a verification process to have the coveted blue tick displayed alongside their name.

Notably, reports indicate that users who already possess verification badges on Instagram and Facebook will not be required to pay for Meta’s newly implemented paid verification plan moving forward. This change by Meta signifies a departure from the previous criteria for obtaining the highly sought-after blue ticks on the popular social media platforms.