Verification badge
A verification badge, the blue tick, shows that an account really belongs to that person or brand; most platforms now also sell it by subscription.
Why it matters
It makes fakes easier to spot, gives faster support and strengthens proof of identity in account disputes.
Watch out
Messages saying your badge is approved or will be removed are almost always phishing; platforms do not send verification links by DM. Guide: getting verified on Instagram.
Frequently asked questions
Does a badge stop hacking?
No; two-factor authentication and good security settings do.