More Blue Check Drama: If You Remove Your Own Badge On Telegram They May Never Give It Back

Blue checks, a type of verification symbol for social media platforms to authenticate a user’s identity, have become a hot-button issue following Elon Musk’s decision to sell blue checks to anyone that buys one after taking over Twitter. Other apps, like Telegram, also use blue checks that help users identify legitimate portfolios.
One Telegram user, Preston Hudman, had taken his own badge away when he wanted to change his channel's name as per Telegram's instructions, but when he applied again this time they didn't verify him and they have refused him for over a year now. Despite Preston being verified on virtually every other platform, including his Instagram, Twitter, VK and Facebook accounts, Telegram has refused to replace the check mark he himself removed. Hudman is also actively pursuing a check mark on his TikTok page.

Hudman documented the saga in a recent blog post on his website. Other users have reported having issues with becoming verified on Telegram as well. According to a recent article from Vents Magazine, Hudman is adamant about receiving the check mark from Telegram, because users impersonating him have tried to scam innocent users out of thousands of dollars. 

“To make matters worse since Telegram doesn’t verify users and will only verify channels and groups, it is rife with scammers and one of them already had success impersonating Preston and scamming someone out of $3500,” the article reads. 

Telegram reportedly only verifies groups and channels, which makes it hard for qualified users to get a blue check. This makes it easier for scammers to impersonate people to try and swindle innocent users. Telegram uses a group of volunteer moderators to help with the verification process. Telegram has more than one billion users and could provide a safer experience through a more legitimate verification process.

Hudman’s story exemplifies why these verification badges can be important- to help deter would-be scammers.
In Hudman's case, Telegram support has refused to respond to him no matter how hard he tries to reach out to him. They have ghosted him while not even allowing him to apply anymore. Hopefully, Telegram is able to take action and help Hudman out so that there aren’t any more scam attempts.