Instagram is now inviting users to apply for verified account status in order to stave off those dastardly fake profiles. Following Twitter’s lead, users can apply for the sought-after blue ticks next to their profile pictures – directly through the app.
Those who believe they’re worthy of the tick due to their status as a “public figure, celebrity, global brand or entity” can access a Request Verification form via the account settings.
From there, users will need to fill in their account usernames, full names and upload a document identifying themselves or their business. Of course, Instagram isn’t promising anything in the way of acceptance. The company says it will send users a notification informing them if the request is successful.
Related: How to delete an Instagram account
In a blog post on Tuesday, the company announced: “… The blue verified badge is an important way for you to know that the account you are interacting with is the authentic presence of a notable public figure, celebrity, global brand or entity. Today we are enabling a new way for accounts that reach large audiences and meet our criteria to request verification through a form within the Instagram app.”
Elsewhere, Instagram has also announced a pair of features designed to make the app more secure. Firstly, the Instagram app will soon support third-party authenticator apps like Duo Mobile. The roll-out has already started and will be available to everyone in the next few weeks.
To enable the authenticator apps, users will need to head to Settings, choose “Two-Factor Authentication” and select “Authentication App”.
Finally, the Facebook-owned app is adding an “About This Account” feature, which will enable users to “see more information about accounts on Instagram that reach large audiences so you can evaluate the authenticity of the account.”
Will you be dashing to grab the blue tick? Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
