Twitter is launching a subscription service that includes a blue checkmark given only to currently verified accounts.
Twitter has launched a subscription service for $7.99 per month. This includes Blue his checks, which are only given to verified accounts because new owner Elon Musk overhauled the platform’s verification system just before the midterm elections in the United States.
In an update for Apple iOS devices, Twitter said Saturday that users who “sign up now” will receive a blue check next to their name “just like celebrities, businesses and politicians they already follow.” said. So far, verified accounts don’t seem to lose their checks.
Those who can get their hands on a blue check face increased confusion and disinformation ahead of Tuesday’s election if scammers decide to pay subscription fees and plagiarize the names of politicians and election officials. may be connected.
In addition to widespread layoffs that began Friday, social platforms used by public agencies, election commissions, police and news outlets to keep people informed are failing to moderate and verify content. Many people fear that if they do, they may become lawless.
The change marks the end of Twitter’s current verification system, which began in 2009 to prevent impersonation of high-profile accounts such as celebrities and politicians.
Before the overhaul, Twitter had approximately 423,000 verified accounts, many of which were general journalists from around the world, verified by the company, regardless of how many followers they had.
Experts have grave concerns about subverting the platform’s verification system, which helps Twitter’s 238 million daily users determine whether the accounts whose information they are obtaining are genuine. is expressed. Not perfect.
Currently verified accounts include celebrities, athletes, influencers and other public figures, as well as government agencies and politicians, journalists and media outlets, activists, businesses and brands around the world.
Also on Saturday, the United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk wrote an open letter urging Musk to ensure respect for human rights is at the heart of the social network.
“Like all companies, Twitter must understand the harms associated with its platform and take steps to address them. In short, I strongly encourage you to ensure that human rights are at the heart of Twitter’s management under your leadership.
