Now the only way to get verified is to pay for it. The world woke up in shock last week when Elon Musk said no more of the verified check business. Celebrities, including those with established followings have had their verified checks removed. Beyonce, Kim Kardashian, Bill Gates all whom are trending pretty much every day no longer have blue checks. Government agencies are also on the list of blue checks removed. Many of today's new celebrities have rode the wave of social media popularity by cashing in on a new career as an "influencer".
Social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter have empowered individuals to become celebrities in their on right. Major brands collaborate with influencers to reach a broader audience, specifically the younger generation. Social media changed marketing strategies for brands. The influencer takeoff has students skipping college to focus on going "viral" or becoming famous on one of the thousands of social media platforms available today.
Musk has presented the changes in many discussions leading up to 4/20 on Twitter's verification system as a way of "treating everyone equally." It's been reported Musk explained, There shouldn't be a different standard for celebrities.
Social Media is so embedded in the American culture that many flock to the different applications to get the latest news, trending topics, with bloggers in the mix utilizing the social media web that cast information out to masses in lighting speed. So much so 60 Minutes did a special on Social media in America.
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Video: 60 Minutes YouTube