Plans to charge Twitter users for verified 'blue tick' accounts could cost the Scottish Government and local authorities thousands of pounds if implemented.
The social media giant is reportedly considering changes to its Blue subscription service, which could see users charged $20 (£17.30) a month or $240 a year.
Accounts with a blue tick have been checked by Twitter to ensure they are genuine and an authentic source of information - but they could lose that status if they do not agree to pay the charge within 90 days.