At first glance, you would think that if you’ve got the cash, why not flaunt a blue tick like a badge of honour? After all, who doesn’t love a little extra credibility on the gram? If you’re wondering what this is about, Instagram recently announced that verification can be bought for the reasonable price of $1.99 a month and the world of social media has come undone.

On one hand, buying an Instagram verification blue tick can help boost the credibility and visibility of small businesses and independent creators. In today’s competitive world of social media marketing, having a blue tick can help an account stand out and ensure that it doesn’t just float by in an endless sea of creativity. Moreover, the current verification process can be subjective and influenced by factors such as media coverage and industry connections. Allowing users to purchase a blue tick can make the process more transparent and accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or connections.

However, there are also valid arguments against the capitalisation of a blue tick. For one, it undermines the authenticity of the process. If used to be a symbol of public interest and importance, indicating that an account is worthy of verification and by allowing anyone to purchase it, Instagram risks diluting its value and creating a culture of privilege and elitism. This may seem like it could lead to a scenario where those who can afford to buy their way in are deemed worthy of the influencer status, rather than those with genuine talent, skill, or creativity.

Here’s my hot take; buying a verification blue tick is like rigging the electoral system, it’s unfair but ultimately that’s what the climb to the top looks like in a world where everyone is constantly fighting for visibility. I find that it is imperative that all bursts of madness have some structure or method to it, which is why it is important to strike a balance between accessibility and authenticity. I think Instagram should focus on maintaining the credibility of the process as a whole while also making it more transparent and accessible. One solution could be to create a tiered system where verified accounts are divided into categories based on their level of public interest and importance. This would ensure that accounts that have earned their blue tick through hard work and consistency are given more recognition and visibility than those who have simply purchased it.

In conclusion, Instagram I think it’s time you check yourself before you wreck yourself. Find the right balance and when you do, tick it right off.