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Whether you’re a thought leader, influencer or entrepreneur, you probably have “get verified on Instagram” on your to-do list. And you should. The coveted blue check mark is valuable for any business leader, but especially for those whose work relies on having a positive public persona.
Not only does the check mark put you in an elite group — less than 5% of Instagram accounts are granted a verified status — but it also protects you from imposters hijacking your online presence. Which of the dozens of Ryan Reynolds’ Instagram accounts is the real one? The one with the blue check mark.
So, how do you get verified on Instagram? There are those who would tell you that the process is easy and requires only a little bit of time, a few forms and some money. Don’t believe them. Those people are scammers who are trying to get access to your private information or take your money.
As Instagram explains on its website, verification is something that is offered to those who “represent a well-known, highly searched-for person, brand or entity.” If that does not describe you or your brand, you should be suspicious of anyone who offers you an easy path to getting a blue check mark.
Here are three common Instagram verification scams you should be careful to avoid.
Related: Is That Instagram Email a Phishing Attack? Now You Can Find Out.
1. Don’t trust an invitation to apply
If you are a well-known person or…
