In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. Instagram, in particular, has emerged as one of the most popular platforms for sharing photos and videos with friends and family, and for businesses to reach out to potential customers. With over 1 billion monthly active users, Instagram is a powerful tool for building a brand and gaining a large following. But with so many users on the platform, it can be challenging to stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is by getting verified on Instagram.
What is Instagram Verification?
Instagram verification is a process by which Instagram confirms the authenticity of a user’s account. This is done by adding a blue checkmark badge to the user’s profile. The badge indicates that the account is genuine and belongs to a public figure, celebrity, or brand. Verification helps users identify which accounts are legitimate and which are not. It also helps prevent impersonation and protects the integrity of the platform.
History of Instagram Verification
Instagram verification is a process that allows users to verify their accounts and prove their identity as genuine and notable public figures or brands. The verification badge, a blue checkmark, appears next to the user’s name on their profile and in search results, and it signifies that the account is authentic and trustworthy.
In 2014, Instagram started to verify accounts for public figures, celebrities, and brands, but the verification process was not accessible to everyone. However, in 2018, Instagram introduced a new feature that allowed users to apply for verification themselves. This was a significant change as it gave more people the chance to have their account verified, which not only gave them a sense of legitimacy but also helped them stand out from other accounts.The verification process was done manually, and Instagram would review the user’s account to confirm their identity and ensure that they met the platform’s criteria for verification. In 2018, Instagram expanded the verification process to include more users, such as journalists, athletes, and public figures, as well as businesses and brands.
To apply for verification, users had to go to their profile settings and click on the “Request Verification” option. They were then required to provide their full name, a government-issued photo ID, and a brief description of why they wanted to be verified. Instagram would then review the application and let the user know if they were successful or not.
Despite the new application process, Instagram continued to keep the criteria for verification a secret. However, it was widely believed that having a large following, being a public figure, and having a high level of engagement were important factors. Additionally, Instagram stated that verified accounts must comply with their terms of service and community guidelines.
In 2020, Instagram made another change to the verification process by introducing an in-app form for users to apply for verification. This made the process even more accessible and straightforward. However, Instagram continued to keep the criteria for verification a secret.
The idea of verification on social media platforms like Instagram originated as a means of protecting users from impersonation and fake accounts. In 2009, Twitter introduced the first verification system for public figures, celebrities, and brands, which included a blue badge next to the user’s name. Verification became a status symbol, and it was a way for Twitter to show that it valued high-profile users and wanted to protect their accounts.
To be eligible for verification, Instagram requires users to meet certain criteria, such as being a notable public figure or brand, having a complete and authentic profile, and adhering to the platform’s terms of service and community guidelines. Users must also provide identification and documentation to prove their identity and notability.
Despite Instagram’s efforts to maintain the integrity of its verification system, there have been instances of abuse and controversy surrounding the process. In 2018, Instagram temporarily halted its verification process after users complained that the system was inconsistent and biased towards certain users. Additionally, some users have been known to buy verification badges or use fake documentation to trick Instagram into verifying their accounts.
Overall, Instagram verification has become an essential tool for high-profile users and brands to establish credibility and protect their accounts from impersonation. While the process may not be perfect, Instagram continues to refine its verification system to ensure that it is fair, consistent, and effective in protecting its users Instagram has made the process more accessible to everyone, giving more users the chance to have their accounts verified.
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How to Get Verified on Instagram
Getting verified on Instagram is not an easy task. Instagram has strict criteria that must be met before an account can be verified. Here are the steps to follow if you want to get verified:
1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria: Instagram requires users to meet the following eligibility criteria before they can apply for verification:
- Your account must be public
- Your account must have a complete bio
- Your account must have a profile picture
- Your account must have at least one post
- Your account must be active
- Your account must be unique and not represent a business or entity that is already verified
2. Submit an Application: Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you can submit an application for verification. To do this, follow these steps:
- Go to your profile and tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
- Tap Settings > Account > Request Verification.
- Enter your full name and attach a government-issued photo ID.
- If you’re applying for a business account, you’ll also need to provide documentation proving your business’s authenticity.
3. Wait for a Response: Instagram will review your application and notify you of their decision. If your application is successful, you will receive a blue checkmark badge on your profile.
Tips for Getting Verified on Instagram
Here are some additional tips to help you increase your chances of getting verified on Instagram:
- Build a Strong Presence: The more followers and engagement you have, the more likely you are to get verified.
- Be Active: Post regularly and engage with your followers to show that your account is active.
- Use Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags to increase your visibility and reach on the platform.
- Collaborate with Other Verified Accounts: Collaborating with other verified accounts can increase your credibility and visibility on the platform.
- Be Patient: The verification process can take some time, so be patient and continue to build your presence on the platform.
Conclusion
Getting verified on Instagram can be a valuable asset for your personal or business brand. However, it’s important to remember that verification is not a guarantee of success or popularity on the platform. The key to building a strong presence on Instagram is to create high-quality content, engage with
your followers, and consistently work to grow your audience. While verification may help boost your credibility and visibility, it’s ultimately up to you to create a successful presence on the platform.
Instagram verification is a valuable tool for building credibility and authenticity on the platform. By following the eligibility criteria and tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of getting verified on Instagram. However, it’s important to remember that verification is just one aspect of building a successful presence on the platform. Consistently creating high-quality content and engaging with your followers is key to growing your audience and establishing yourself as a trusted authority in your niche.
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