“We’re back to rolling out access to request a blue badge,” Twitter Verified tweeted Monday. “If you’re planning to apply and don’t yet have access, keep checking your account settings. Thanks for sticking with us.” Twitter had suspended its account verification program back in November 2017 after users complained that the process felt arbitrary and confusing. The company’s decision to verify a white supremacist account caused widespread criticism. After a gap of three years, the social media biggie came up with a revamped verification policy last November. It categorized accounts into six different types and said all accounts can apply for the verified badge if they meet certain criteria. The six categories include government; companies, brands, and non-profit organizations; news; entertainment; sports; activists, organizers, and other influential individuals. The verification program eventually re-opened in May this year. But just a week after reopening, Twitter had to pause the program because of the volume of applications it received. The company took a few days to clear the backlog and resumed applications. However, it once again paused rolling out the option to users last month. The company said it wants to “make improvements to the application and review process,” suggesting that there are some flaws in the revamped verification policy. “We want to get things right, and appreciate your patience,” it said. Twitter had incorrectly verified several fake accounts that were likely part of a botnet. A month later, the Twitter account verification program is once again open to users. Hopefully, the company has learned from its mistakes in the past and will be more careful while verifying accounts in the future.
How to apply for the verified badge on Twitter?
If you meet the criteria outlined here, you can apply for the verified badge on Twitter. You will see a “Request verification” option on the Account Settings page on the web and Twitter app. Tap it and follow the on-screen instructions, which require you to verify your identity and select an account category, to complete the application. Twitter will use both automated and human review processes to verify your identity. It will update you about the status of your application on your registered email address. Note that it could take a few weeks for the process to complete.
