Instagram will soon make it easier for users to get that coveted blue tick. The company is testing an account verification process in Australia to let users submit requests to get their accounts verified.
That blue tick not only makes your profile stand out in search results, but it also lends great credibility to the account and gives users access to some special features.
Starting today, Instagram users in Australia can apply for account verification from the new ‘Request Verification’ option in the Settings menu. Once they’ve submitted the required data, Instagram will assess their profile and if found suitable, the account will be granted the verified status. The feature is available only on the Instagram app for iOS for now, but it will soon make its way to Android too.
“This new feature will allow our community the opportunity to apply for verification themselves, and understand the process behind getting verified on Instagram. We believe opening up verification to the public will also work towards safeguarding our community”, Instagram’s Strategic Partner Manager (APAC), Nicci Meek, was quoted as saying by Nine.com.au.
Instagram will reportedly assess a profile for multiple parameters such as popularity, authenticity, uniqueness and profile completeness among others to verify a profile. As for the details required to get a verified account, users have to submit their username, full name and photo identification.
Instagram’s new move will certainly save users from scam accounts, because there is reportedly a booming underground network where people pay up to $15,000 to ‘people with contacts’ in order to get the verified badge. Some Instagram employees are reportedly involved in the sale of verified accounts. Instagram will also expand the testing of the account verification feature to more regions, however, there are no country-wise rollout details available at the moment.
