Instagram Users Are Paying $7000 To Get Their Accounts Verified

The blue check mark is usually given to high-profile figures and influencers for free to confirm their identity; it signals Instagram popularity, giving an elevated status which is more likely to attract attention from brands. However, as Mashable reveals, these ticks are so sought-after in influencer circles that Instagram staff have created their own black market: Instagram staff will add a tick for a cost (usually around $1,200) – and a middleman will add a large extra chunk onto that.

“It all comes down to money and who you know,” one middleman told Mashable. “It's sad, but it's kind of how life is, you know? I've sold verifications anywhere from $1,500 to $7,000.” Instagram ticks can't be requested as with Facebook and Twitter, making them all the more coveted and valuable. The market is becoming increasingly difficult to operate, however, and the social media platform has fired numerous employees over it.

Would you splash the cash for a virtual tick?