How to Differentiate Between Genuine and Paid Blue Checkmarks on Instagram

How to Differentiate Between Genuine and Paid Blue Checkmarks on Instagram

In today's digital age, there's an increasing number of fake accounts on Instagram being used for malicious purposes such as scams. Determining whether an account possesses a genuine blue verification checkmark or one obtained through subscriptions has become crucial.

In June 2023, Instagram introduced the Meta Verified feature in Indonesia, enabling users to obtain a blue checkmark by paying for a subscription. The monthly subscription costs Rp100,000 through the website or Rp130,000 via the Android and iOS apps. This subscription package grants users a verification badge on their Instagram account, access to Facebook, and the connected Threads app.

However, there's also a way to attain the blue checkmark for free through an achievement-based route, involving a submission process and strict requirements. So, how can one differentiate between a genuine Instagram blue checkmark and a paid one?

Differentiating Genuine and Paid Blue Checkmarks on Instagram

Step One: 

1. Identifying Subscription/Paid Accounts
2. Open the Instagram app on your device.
3. Select any account at random (it doesn't have to be the one you want to verify).
4. On the profile page of the account, find and tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
5. Choose the "Report" option from the menu that appears.
6. Then, select "Report Account."

Step Two: 

1. Identifying Genuine Blue Checkmarks
2. Choose the account you want to verify and pretend to be someone else, like a celebrity or public figure.
3. Finally, type in the account name you're investigating.
4. If the search results don't display the user account you're looking for, it's likely that the account is a result of subscribing to Meta Verified. This indicates the account owner has paid for the blue checkmark.

As per @benakribo on Instagram

Benazio R Putra, also known as Benakribo, a content creator, shared a guide for distinguishing between genuine and paid blue checkmarks.

He recommends the following steps:

1. Visit the profile of the account owner with the blue checkmark.
2. Tap the three dots at the top of the profile page and select "about this account."
3. If the account was verified in June 2023 or earlier, it's more likely to be organic verification. On the contrary, if the verification is more recent, the account might have obtained it through subscription.

By understanding the difference between genuine and paid blue checkmarks on Instagram, you can be more vigilant and avoid fake accounts or potential scams.

Remember that achieving a blue checkmark through an achievement-based route is a more transparent process and is valued by the Instagram community.