Blue Tick Account Fraud: How to Spot Fake Accounts
- Jakarta - With the recent rollout allowing anyone to purchase a blue tick on Instagram, cybersecurity experts are warning users to be vigilant and understand how to identify...
- people see it and instantly think, 'Wow, its definitely genuine, verified, and safe.' Or, it coudl actually be a fraud?" stated Alfons Tanujaya, a cybersecurity observer at Vaccinecom,...
- Tanujaya emphasizes that users should not be immediatly fooled by the blue tick or even the profile picture.
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Instagram Blue Tick: Identifying Potential Fraudulent Accounts
Jakarta – With the recent rollout allowing anyone to purchase a blue tick on Instagram, cybersecurity experts are warning users to be vigilant and understand how to identify potentially fraudulent accounts despite the verification symbol.
“The blue tick can be deceptive. people see it and instantly think, ‘Wow, its definitely genuine, verified, and safe.’ Or, it coudl actually be a fraud?” stated Alfons Tanujaya, a cybersecurity observer at Vaccinecom, in a video posted on Instagram.
Tanujaya emphasizes that users should not be immediatly fooled by the blue tick or even the profile picture. A key indicator of a potentially fraudulent account lies within the “About this account” section.
How to Identify Potential Fraudulent Accounts
While Instagram’s blue tick was previously reserved for notable public figures, organizations, and brands, the introduction of Instagram Subscriptions in 2023 allowed anyone to purchase verification for a monthly fee. This change has created opportunities for malicious actors to exploit the system.
According to Tanujaya, the “About this account” section provides crucial information. Users should carefully examine this section for inconsistencies or red flags. Specifically,look for:
- Account Creation Date: Recently created accounts with a blue tick should raise suspicion.
- Verified Phone Number/Email: Check if the account has verified contact information.
- Linked Websites: Investigate any linked websites for legitimacy.
Understanding Instagram’s Verification System
Instagram’s verification system has evolved. Here’s a breakdown:
| Verification Type | Requirements | Cost (as of Jan 6, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Legacy Verified Badge | Previously reserved for notable public figures, celebrities, global brands, and entities. | Free (no longer available for new accounts) |
| Instagram Subscriptions (blue Tick) | requires a monthly subscription and a valid government ID. | $7.99/month (web) / $11.99/month (iOS/Android) |
Additional Tips for Staying Safe on Instagram
- be wary of unsolicited messages: Especially those asking for personal information or money.
- Report suspicious accounts: Instagram provides tools to report accounts that violate its community guidelines