Meta has launched a paid subscription service called "Meta Verified" to authenticate user accounts on Facebook and Instagram. image credit: Google

The service starts at $11.99 per month and is primarily aimed at content creators looking to expand their presence on the platforms. image credit: Google

Users who subscribe to Meta Verified receive a badge indicating their account has been verified with a government ID. image credit: Google

The service also provides extra protection against impersonation, direct access to customer support, and more visibility. image credit: Google

Meta Verified will be rolled out in Australia and New Zealand this week before coming to other countries. image credit: Google

The service is not yet available to businesses. image credit: Google

The move follows a similar service launched by Twitter. image credit: Google

The traditional advertising-based business model that has long dominated the internet is faltering. image credit: Google

The service is part of Meta's diversification efforts and is not expected to generate significant revenue during the test phase. image credit: Google

The pricing of Meta Verified may pose challenges in countries where users cannot afford to pay $12 a month , or in cash-based economies where they may have fewer ways to get the money to Meta. image credit: Google b