Twitter finally removes Blue Checkmarks from legacy verified users amidst criticism

After multiple delays, Twitter has finally started removing blue checkmarks from “legacy” verified users. The change is visible on several celebrity accounts, with the verification mark occasionally disappearing and reappearing between page reloads.

Twitter introduced the verification system in 2009 to reduce the potential for impersonation. The focus was on well-established people in areas like politics, entertainment, and the media. However, when Elon Musk bought Twitter in 2022, he claimed that there were too many “corrupt” verified accounts and that it was necessary to drop the legacy system.

The blue checkmark, which appears next to a user's name, indicates that Twitter has confirmed their identity. However, the company has faced criticism for its verification process, which has sometimes verified accounts that promote hate speech and misinformation.

Brands and organizations can still apply for (and pay for) a gold checkmark for verification. Meanwhile, other users can sign up for Twitter Blue, which costs $8 per month, to regain a blue checkmark on their account.