It seems Twitter has found yet one more way to force users into paying for verification: Advertising on the platform will now require a checkmark.
Not yet extorsion, but we are definitely being bullied into paying to continue using Twitter.
Related | The Twitter Blue Check Apocalypse Has Begun
As Twitter finally made its move to remove all legacy blue checkmarks, the platform is now pushing for more accounts to subscribe to Twitter Blue (for individuals) or Verified Organizations (for brands and businesses.)
An email sent to all advertisers earlier today explained that “your @account must have a verified checkmark or subscribe to either Twitter Blue or Verified Organizations to continue running ads on Twitter.” There will be exceptions for business accounts that spend in excess of $1,000 per month already on the platform.
Related | Some Companies Will Get Twitter’s Gold Checkmark For Free
The email reads (screenshot below):
Building a better Twitter through verification
Hello!
Starting April 21, your @account must have a verified checkmark or subscribe to either Twitter Blue or Verified Organizations to continue running ads on Twitter. Business accounts spending in excess of $1000 per month already have gold checks or will soon, and they’ll continue to enjoy access to advertising without interruption at this time.
This change aligns with Twitter’s broader verification strategy: to elevate the quality of content on Twitter and enhance your experience as a user and advertiser. This approach also supports our ongoing efforts to reduce fraudulent accounts and bots.
Subscribing to either of these services means you have been verified by Twitter as a real person and/or business.
Amongst other features, you’ll have a more visible organic presence and a broader range of creation tools. We’re excited for you to get started and to benefit from a superior Twitter experience.
It is another bullish move from Elon Musk who was caught in a controversy with several celebrities claiming they were not paying for their blue checkmark, leading to Musk publicity admitting he had been stepping in to pay for some celebrities’ verification when they refuse to do so.
Is it time to consider alternatives?