Facebook and Instagram have launched a new subscription service for users looking to authenticate their accounts. The move follows the example set by Twitter's CEO, Elon Musk. Meta Verified, which costs $11.99 a month, is designed to increase authenticity and security across the two social networks.
The new feature offers users government ID-verified badges indicating that their account has been authenticated, as well as extra protection against impersonation attempts, direct access to customer support staff, more visibility on the platforms, and other benefits. Initially rolled out in Australia and New Zealand this week with plans of expansion into other markets such as the United States, at a later stage, Meta Verified will be primarily aimed at content creators who wish to increase their presence on these platforms.
Meta Verified comes when many companies are rethinking their business models due to advertising revenue becoming more difficult to generate online in recent years. As such, features like these could provide an alternative income stream for social media companies while also providing additional safety measures for users who desire them – something that is especially important given increasing concerns about online privacy over the past few years.
In conclusion, Facebook’s decision to introduce this subscription service marks an interesting shift from its original plan of always being free. However it may be necessary if they want stay afloat in current market conditions while also offering customers better security options than before. Time will tell whether or not it proves successful, but either way it shows just how much things have changed since these websites first came onto our screens all those years ago!