Instagram verification is the process of getting a blue checkmark badge that tells other users on the platform that an account really belongs to the user, artist, brand, or organization it represents.

You’ve probably seen plenty of verification badges around. As with Twitter, Facebook and, yes, Tinder, that how to get verified on instagram on little blue checkmarks are meant to indicate that the platform has confirmed the account in question is trustworthy, or at least they are who they say they are.

These badges are designed to make the real accounts stand out, so that Instagram users can be sure they’re following the right person or brand. They’re easy to spot in search results and on profiles, and they convey authority.