Twitter’s New Authentication Model: Decrypting the Removal of KOLs and Blue Label Verification

On April 21st, it was reported that since the change in Twitter’s authentication model, multiple encrypted KOLs and founders’ “blue label” certifications have been removed, including Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, Tezos co founder Kathleen Breitman, Shapeshift founder Erik Vorhees, FTX founder and former CEO Sam Bankman Fried, encrypted payment company Block, and former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. However, Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, Zhao Changpeng, CEO of Binance, Jesse Powell, CEO of Kraken, and Vitalik Buterin, founder of Ethereum, were not affected.

Twitter starts canceling blue label authentication for unpaid accounts

Twitter is a social media platform that has gained significant popularity since its launch in 2006. The platform initially focused on micro-blogging, but now it allows users to interact with each other using several features. Over time, Twitter created a system of authentication for users to verify their identity, thereby ensuring that the information being shared on the platform is genuine. However, recently, the platform has faced criticism due to its new authentication model. On April 21st, it was reported that several well-known individuals, including KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) and founders, have lost their encrypted “blue label” certifications. The question remains: what led to the change, and why were some left unaffected?

Why Did Twitter’s Authentication Model Change?

Twitter’s authentication model changed to improve the security of the platform. This change aimed to combat fake accounts and orchestrated attempts to manipulate the platform’s users. Twitter wanted to prevent the creation of verified accounts that may damage the reputation of the platform or harm its users. To do so, Twitter introduced an automated system that removes inactive and incomplete accounts. Additionally, Twitter also removed the option for users to apply for verification, limiting it only to notable public figures in politics or public interest.

Who Was Affected by Twitter’s New Authentication Model?

As per the reports on April 21st, several prominent personalities lost their blue label certifications following Twitter’s model change. The individual’s blue label certification is a status symbol, indicating that the user’s account is authentic and trustworthy. These included Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, Tezos co-founder Kathleen Breitman, Shapeshift founder Erik Voorhees, FTX founder and former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried, encrypted payment company Block, and former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey. Though they lost their blue label certification, their accounts continue to exist on the platform, and they remain active. However, not all KOLs and founders were affected by the changes. Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, Zhao Changpeng, CEO of Binance, Jesse Powell, CEO of Kraken, and Vitalik Buterin, founder of Ethereum, were not impacted by Twitter’s new authentication model.

The Impact of Twitter’s Authentication Model Change on KOLs and Founders

Many of the affected individuals voiced their frustration with Twitter’s new authentication model change. They argued that Twitter had not provided them with any warning or specific reasons for the loss of their blue label credentials. The blue label is crucial for KOLs and founders, indicating the trustworthiness and authenticity of their accounts. Therefore, the loss of the blue label certification often resulted in users questioning the authenticity of the accounts and their tweets. The impact could extend to their businesses and other ventures as well.
Moreover, it also raised concerns in the public domain about the issues of transparency and accountability concerning Twitter’s new authentication model. Further, some KOLs and founders considered transitioning to alternative social media platforms that offer more transparency in terms of authentication and verification.

Conclusion

Twitter’s new authentication model may have improved platform security, but it also impacted several well-known individuals. The changes seem to have been made spontaneously and without any prior warning. While it’s essential to create a safer platform, the impact it has on KOLs and founders needs to be addressed. Twitter needs to ensure that its new model doesn’t hurt authenticity and credibility. As the situation progresses, we will have more clarity on how this incident affects the online world.

FAQs

Q: What is Twitter’s authentication model?
A: Twitter’s authentication model enables users to verify their identity on the platform to share genuine information.
Q: Why did Twitter change its authentication model?
A: Twitter changed its authentication model to prevent fake accounts and orchestrated attempts to manipulate the platform’s users.
Q: Who was affected by Twitter’s new authentication model?
A: Reports suggest that several well-known individuals, including KOLs and founders, lost their blue label certification. However, some notable public figures remain unaffected.