Breaking Down Meta Verified: A Pay-for-Verification Subscription and Its Impact on Social Media Influencers and Content Creators

INTRODUCTION

In the world of social media, influencer marketing has become a powerful force in the marketing industry. With the rise of content creators and influencers on social media, Meta has launched a new subscription-based verification service called Meta Verified, which allows social media influencers and content creators to get verified on Facebook and Instagram on a monthly subscription basis. While the launch of this new program has been met with some controversy, there's no denying that it has the potential to have a significant impact on influencers and content creators.

WHAT IS META VERIFIED?

Meta Verified is a paid subscription bundle that Facebook and Instagram users could avail of to get their accounts verified. According to Meta, this is to expand access to verification so that people can trust that the accounts they interact with are authentic and thus help content creators grow their online presence on the platforms. 

HOW IT WORKS

The subscription-based service allows Facebook and Instagram users to pay for verification on the platform. Once verified, these accounts receive a blue checkmark next to their name, signifying that their account has been authenticated by Meta. While verification has always been free on these platforms prior to this, the new subscription program offers an expedited verification process and other added benefits.

ADVANTAGES OF META VERIFIED

• A verified badge aka the blue check mark

This feature will confirm that you're the real you and that your account has been authenticated with a government ID. This means that your followers will know that your content is authentic and that they're not being misled by impersonators.

• Impersonation protections

Paired with proactive account protection, you'll be protected from impersonators who might target people with growing online audiences.

• Access to a real person for account support

This feature ensures that content creators have access to a real person for common account issues. This is particularly useful if you're facing any account issues, such as being locked out of your account or having trouble accessing certain features. 

• Increased visibility and reach especially to search, comments, and recommendations. 

This will help content creators have an increased chance of reaching new followers, gaining more exposure, and attracting a wider audience.

• Exclusive features for self-expression

This inclusion can help creators differentiate themselves from their competitors and create a unique brand identity.

IMPACT ON SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS AND CONTENT CREATORS

Meta Verified will likely open increased opportunities and partnerships for influencers who can afford to pay for verification as brands and businesses will likely work with verified influencers as they will be seen as more trustworthy and reliable. Moreover, being verified on social media will help establish an influencer's authenticity and credibility online, which may translate into increased visibility and a larger following.

With so many fake accounts and impersonators on the platform, being verified on social media is seen as a badge of honor and a way to establish legitimacy. However, it's important to remember that being verified on social media is not a guarantee of success. Influencers still need to create engaging and authentic content that resonates with their audience.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

To be eligible for Meta Verified, you must be at least 18 years old and your account must meet minimum activity requirements, such as prior posting history. You'll also be required to submit a government ID that matches the profile name and photo of the Facebook or Instagram account you're applying for. This is to ensure that only the real you can apply for the service.

AVAILABILITY

As of writing, Meta Verified is being tested in Australia and New Zealand. Once ready, Meta plans to roll out the service to the rest of the world soon. 

It’s also important to note that accounts that are already verified based on prior requirements will not be impacted and that businesses are not eligible to apply at this time.