Linda Yaccarino’s Blue Check Vanishes on X
The social media world buzzed when X, formerly known as Twitter, removed the blue checkmark from Linda Yaccarino‘s profile. This sparked widespread speculation and curiosity. Why did this happen, and what does it signify for the platform’s verification system?
The Verification System Evolution
Originally, Twitter used the blue checkmark to verify active, notable, and authentic public-interest accounts. However, after Elon Musk’s takeover, the platform introduced Twitter Bluea subscription that grants blue checks to anyone willing to pay. As a result, the verification badge lost its original meaning, creating confusion between legitimate accounts and those based on paid endorsements. Moreover, the EU flagged this change under the Digital Services Act, warning it can deceive users and may lead to fines up to 6% of global turnover .
Why the Shift Sparked Backlash
- Authenticity blurred: Anyone paying $7.99 monthly could display a blue check, regardless of their real-world identity.
- Misinformation spread: NewsGuard reported that verified misinformation accounts gained credibility through paid checks.
- Legacy checks removed: Twitter revoked legacy checkmarks from public figures, celebrities, and journalists leading to widespread backlash.
Broader Impacts
Notably, the EU flagged paid verification under the Digital Services Act, warning that it could deceive users and mislead authentication signals. Furthermore, regulators emphasized that X could face hefty fines up to 6% of global turnover if non-compliance persists
Trust eroded Platforms and users struggled to discern genuine accounts from paid ones. As The Verge noted, Musk’s paid model could erode that trust
Hashtag revolt Campaigns like BlockTheBlue encouraged users to block anyone with the new blue check.
Why the Removal?
Several reasons could explain why X removed Linda Yaccarino’s blue check:
- Subscription Lapse: The most straightforward explanation is that Yaccarino’s account, or X itself, did not renew the Twitter Blue subscription.
- Policy Violation: While less likely, a violation of X’s terms of service could lead to the removal of the blue check, even for prominent figures.
- System Glitch: Technical glitches sometimes occur on social media platforms, causing temporary removal of verification badges.
Impact and Implications
The removal, whether intentional or accidental, highlights the complexities of the new verification system under X. It raises questions about the value and meaning of the blue checkmark, especially as it’s now tied to a paid subscription. Experts at Wired discuss the implications of this shift on trust and credibility on the platform.
