Meta launches paid verification for Instagram and Facebook users in Kenya

Meta, the tech giant formerly known as Facebook, has announced a new subscription service that allows users to get verified badges on their Instagram and Facebook profiles.

The service, called Meta Verified, is currently available in Kenya and costs KES 1,320 per month.

Meta Verified is aimed at users who want to increase their credibility and visibility on the social media platforms. Users who subscribe to the service will get a blue verified badge next to their names, as well as access to premium account benefits such as increased account protection, online support, and exclusive features such as stickers.

To be eligible for Meta Verified, users must meet certain requirements, such as being at least 18 years old, having a profile that matches their full government name and photo, and having prior posting activity. Users must also submit a selfie video and a photo or scan of their national ID to verify their identity. The verification process begins after paying the subscription fee through Google PlayStore and is automatically renewed every month unless the user cancels it.

Meta Verified is not available for children and business pages. Users who already have verified pages based on prior requirements, such as celebrities and public figures, are still encouraged to apply for the subscription.

Meta said that there will be no immediate changes to accounts that are already verified, but did not clarify whether they will lose their badges if they do not subscribe.

Meta Verified is similar to Twitter Blue, a subscription service launched by Twitter (now X) earlier this year. Twitter Blue costs KES 1137.92 (US$8) per month and also offers users a verified badge and other perks.