Twitter’s new way of working is driving users crazy. Between certified official badges, $8 paid certified badges, or even “official” buttons, it’s hard to keep track of the operation even before the end of this sentence.
To make matters worse, many users hijack the paid badge system to “impersonate” other users, including celebrities. Many are reportedly willing to pay $8 for a chance at a good viral prank. A digital space that therefore requires even more vigilance to orient oneself and distinguish false information. In this great comedy, Tech&Co will try to help you see things more clearly.
Until now, the addition of a blue verification badge was offered to categories of eligible users who were at risk of identity theft (public figures, politicians, journalists, etc.). Obtaining this credential was accompanied by an identity check. Now, as Elon Musk, the new head of Twitter, wishes, any Internet user can afford this badge for $8 a month, without identity verification.
If the account has a blue badge
If at first glance it is difficult to distinguish between a truly verified account and others, Twitter discreetly offers this possibility. All you have to do is go to the profile of the user in question and click on the blue badge.
If you see the message “This account is verified because it is considered featured in the category of news, government, entertainment or another specific area”, it means that an identity verification has been performed. .
If it’s a blue badge purchased, no verification, Twitter simply specifies that the badge is associated with a “Blue Twitter Subscriber” account, the $8 offer allows you to purchase this digital fashion accessory.
If the account has a gray badge
To limit the harmful effects of these blue badges, Twitter has implemented an “official” gray badge. The latter was widely deployed on November 9, before disappearing. However, Twitter has confirmed that this gray badge will be used for certain categories of accounts, including government, business, or media accounts.
Unlike the blue badge, this gray badge requires Twitter identity verification. Therefore, its presence is synonymous with an authentic account… whether it is accompanied by a blue badge or not.
Source: BFM TV
