Meta Verified Subscription Faces Backlash Over Account Lockouts

In recent weeks, Meta Platforms, Inc. has come under intense scrutiny as numerous users, especially those with paid subscriptions to its Meta Verified service, report being locked out of their Facebook and Instagram accounts without prior warning. This widespread issue has rendered the subscription, which promises enhanced support and account security, seemingly ineffective for many users.

Meta Verified, launched in the United States at a monthly cost of $14.99, and priced at Rs 699 in India, is intended to provide subscribers with additional features such as account verification and direct support. However, affected users have characterized the subscription as 'useless,' citing a lack of human assistance and persistent redirection to malfunctioning support pages.

According to a report by TechCrunch published on July 3, 2025, the problems appear to stem from Meta's AI-driven moderation systems, which have been criticized for erroneously flagging legitimate accounts and content as violations, leading to account suspensions. This situation is not unprecedented; users recall similar incidents in the past where Meta's algorithms have caused significant disruptions.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Digital Media at Stanford University, stated, "Meta's reliance on AI moderation reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, but it also highlights the limitations of such systems in handling nuanced human interactions. The lack of effective customer support exacerbates the frustration felt by users."

The significance of this issue extends beyond individual users. Business accounts and community groups have also been impacted, raising concerns about the platform's reliability for commercial activities. Industry experts, such as Mark Thompson, CEO of Digital Insights Group, emphasize that these disruptions can have detrimental effects on businesses that rely on social media for marketing and customer engagement. Thompson remarked, "For small businesses, being locked out of their accounts can lead to lost revenue opportunities and damage brand reputation."

Meta's response has been criticized as insufficient. Although the company issued a public apology, many users remain unconvinced by the assurances provided. As stated by a spokesperson for Meta, "We are aware of the issues and are working diligently to rectify them. Our goal is to ensure that all users, particularly our paying subscribers, have a positive experience on our platforms."

In light of this turmoil, some users have taken to social media platforms to express their dissatisfaction, creating a growing movement that calls for better support and accountability from Meta. The situation raises broader questions about the efficacy of automated systems in customer service roles and the responsibilities of tech giants in providing reliable service to their customers.

As the backlash continues, experts are urging Meta to reevaluate its approach to account management and customer support. Dr. Emily Chen, an Associate Professor of Information Technology at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, noted, "This incident serves as a critical reminder for tech companies to balance automation with human oversight to foster trust and reliability in their services."

Looking ahead, the future of the Meta Verified subscription may hinge on the company's ability to resolve these issues effectively. As the social media landscape evolves, maintaining user trust will be paramount, and the recent account lockouts could have lasting implications for Meta's reputation and user retention. The company must act swiftly to restore confidence among its subscribers and ensure that its verification service delivers on its promises.