Twitter to bring back the blue verification badge

When Twitter launched the blue verification badge, people wore it as a badge of honour and it was recognized as a seal of authentication. 

However, Twitter discontinued verified accounts in 2017 after falling prey to several controversies. 

Now the company says that it is bringing back the blue tick and has issued a set of guidelines for the same. 

According to Twitter, only six types of accounts will be eligible for verification. These include brands/nonprofits, news, entertainment, sport, government officials and activists. 

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Profiles that apply for verification must be complete with a profile name, bio, and profile and banner images. The profile must be logged into in the last six months and should have a confirmed email Id or mobile number.

Moreover, the account must not have had a 12 hour or 7 day lockout for violating Twitter terms in the past six months. 

Twitter has also said accounts of parody, newsfeed, commentary and fan accounts will be ineligible for the blue badge. This will also include pets or fictional character unless directly affiliated with a verified company, brand or organisation or an entertainment production. 

Twitter adds, "Accounts engaged in severe violations our Platform manipulation and spam policy, such as the buying and selling of followers and engagement. Also, accounts of individuals or groups associated with coordinated harmful activity, or hateful content will also be ineligible for Twitter verified status."

Twitter hasn't confirmed when the new verification accounts will start but it is expected sometime in early 2021.