Instagram and Facebook set to get paid-for verification

Two of the biggest social media platforms are set to allow users to pay for blue-tick verification.

Instagram and Facebook - both owned by Meta - will charge those who want to gain a verification check $11.99 (£9.96) a month on web, or $14.99 for iPhone users. The feature will be made available in Australia and New Zealand this week.

It follows Elon Musk's decision to implement a paid-for verification system on Twitter in November 2022.

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Blue ticks are used across social media platforms to signify if an account is notable or genuine. The subscription service from Meta promises customers increased visibility of their posts, protection from impersonators and easier access to customer service, according to a post on the Meta website.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta chief executive, said the move is aimed at improving security and authenticity on the platforms.

Speaking to the BBC, the company said those with existing blue ticks would retain them. They also confirmed Instagram and Facebook usernames will have to match a government supplied ID document to be granted verification, and users will be required to have a profile picture that includes their face.

Introducing paid-for verification on social media platforms has been a controversial move. Critics say it makes it easier for people to impersonate others.

It is unknown when the feature will be rolled out to other countries, but Mr Zuckerberg said in a post it would be "soon".

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