The YouTube Verification Purge refers to a massive controversy in September 2019 when YouTube announced a change to its verification policy. The new criteria favored high-profile brands and public figures over traditional creators, leading to thousands of YouTubers receiving emails stating their verification badges would be removed. The backlash was immediate and intense, led by major personalities like PewDiePie and Jacksepticeye, who argued the change disconnected the platform from its 'You' roots. Following the uproar, YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki apologized and the platform largely walked back the decision. In meme culture, it is often used to represent corporate overreach, the fragility of digital status, or the chaotic 'purge' of established online identities.