With the introduction of paid subscriptions, the authenticity of Twitter verification is a nightmare in the current age. Here’s how you can know if an account is genuine.
Twitter verification: How can you check if an account is genuine?
Elon Musk finally removed all blue checks from previously verified or ‘legacy’ accounts. This has left people confused over which accounts of lawmakers, journalists, celebrities and others are real and not. The move previously announced weeks ago came to force on Thursday. Currently, a blue tick is not significant for Twitter verification. It signifies the account belongs to someone who subscribes to Twitter Blue. Previously, Twitter offered the blue tick to people who fit certain rules of the platform. they were described as “active, notable, and authentic of public interest”. It was given to both individuals and business accounts with significance.
Introduced in 2009, the system helped users in identifying genuine accounts from myriad imposters and parody accounts. While hundreds of key figures lost their ticks, few such as Stephen King and LeBron James were able to hold on to their verified accounts. This is because CEO Musk himself is paying for it. “I’m paying for a few personally,” tweeted Musk. “Just Shatner, LeBron, and King,” he added. In a separate tweet, the author stated, “My Twitter account says I’ve subscribed to Twitter Blue. I haven’t. My Twitter account says I’ve given a phone number. I haven’t.”
Who is real and who’s fake?
With the introduction of the subscription plan, many agree that the blue tick next to a person’s Twitter name has lost its appeal. The platform has set some guidelines to differentiate fake accounts from real ones. However, using blue ticks alone may make Twitter verification difficult. Users can include an additional cross-referencing system for checking an account’s authenticity. Most celebrities, organizations, and journalists include their Twitter handles on their social media handles or websites. It is important to note that accounts of heads of state or government organizations will have grey ticks noting their connections on the platform.
Additionally, earlier this month Twitter announced it is making its “Verification for Organisations” available across the world. The feature will make it possible for institutions and their affiliates to differentiate themselves on the platform. However, this will cost $1,000 per month and $50 per month, plus taxes for each of the affiliate sub-accounts.