Meta’s paid verification program is available in the US starting today, CEO Mark Zuckerberg wrote on his Instagram channel. Those who sign up metaverified you’ll get a blue verification badge on Facebook and Instagram, “proactive protection against phishing” and direct access to customer support, Zuckerberg said.
It costs $12 per month via the web and $15 per month if you become a Meta Verified member via iOS or Android to account for in-app payment cuts from those platforms. You’ll also get a few stars each month (which you can use to tip Facebook creators) and extra stickers for Stories and Reels.
Unlike Australia and New Zealand, verified subscribers in the US will not yet get increased visibility in some parts of the apps. “We heard feedback that the operation of this part of the offering was causing confusion, so we are taking the time to further explore its value and learn before considering expanding this component outside of Australia and New Zealand,” said one. Meta spokesperson told Engadget. The company says it will look to add other features to Verified as it continues to test the program.
Meta debuted the show in Australia and New Zealand last month. Verified differs from Twitter Blue, through which people can pay for a blue checkmark and other perks, by requiring Instagram and Facebook users to provide Meta with a government ID that matches their name and photo. account. They will have to meet some other eligibility requirementssuch as being 18 years of age or older and having two-factor authentication enabled.
Meta Verified subscribers cannot change their profile name or photo, username, or date of birth unless they are willing to go through the verification process again. Any featured Instagram or Facebook accounts that have been previously verified will keep their blue check.
Update 3/17 12:20 p.m. ET: Added some Meta clarifications.
