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2025-01-30
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is set to introduce a paid verification system for business accounts. This move follows a growing trend among social media giants, including Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter), which has implemented similar charges to combat bots and enhance platform security. Businesses will soon have the option to purchase verification for improved credibility, security, and customer interaction.
Summary
- Meta will charge businesses $22 per month for verification on either Facebook or Instagram or $35 for both.
- This initiative follows the of Meta Verified for creators, which costs $12–$15 monthly.
- The verification offers businesses security features, priority support, and improved search visibility.
- Businesses will also gain access to features like a landing page discoverable via search and the ability for multiple employees to manage customer interactions.
- Meta plans to expand this feature to WhatsApp in the near future.
- The decision aligns with a broader industry shift, as X (formerly Twitter) has already implemented paid verification to curb impersonation and bot activity.
- Verification eligibility requires businesses to meet specific security and activity criteria, and applicants must prove their connection to the business.
- Meta’s paid verification service for individual users was first launched in Australia, New Zealand, and the U.S., later expanding to the UK.
What Undercode Says:
The Rise of Paid Verification
Meta’s decision to monetize verification marks a significant shift in the digital landscape. Social media verification was once a symbol of credibility, reserved for influential figures and brands. Now, it has become a paid feature, raising questions about the future of trust and authenticity online.
Monetization vs. Security
Meta argues that the new system will enhance security and reduce impersonation, yet it also serves as a major revenue stream. Charging businesses for verification capitalizes on their need for visibility and protection, but will this actually improve platform security, or just create a pay-to-play system?
Lessons from X (Twitter)
Elon Musk’s X introduced a similar verification model, leading to chaotic impersonations of brands, celebrities, and even public institutions. Although X later implemented government ID verification to mitigate this, the initial rollout damaged user trust. Meta must learn from X’s mistakes to prevent abuse of the system.
Impact on Small Businesses
For larger corporations, a $35 monthly fee is negligible, but for small businesses, especially in emerging markets, the cost could be a burden. With verification now tied to payment, smaller brands may struggle to compete with those that can afford better visibility and customer trust.
WhatsApp’s Upcoming Role
Expanding verification to WhatsApp indicates a broader monetization strategy. WhatsApp Business is widely used for customer interactions, and verified accounts could be prioritized in search results. This move could transform WhatsApp into a stronger e-commerce and business communication platform.
Potential Backlash from Users
Meta’s previous attempts to charge users, such as Facebook’s ad-free subscription model, have been met with mixed reactions. Businesses might feel forced into paying for verification to maintain credibility, leading to pushback from smaller enterprises.
What’s Next?
The success of Meta’s paid verification hinges on its execution. If properly managed, it could enhance platform security and provide businesses with valuable tools. However, if poorly regulated, it risks becoming another pay-to-win feature that diminishes trust and accessibility on social media.
Would you pay for business verification on Facebook or Instagram? Let us know your thoughts! 🚀
References:
Reported By: https://www.legit.ng/business-economy/technology/1554828-n27k-month-meta-charging-business-accounts-fb-instagram-verification/
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