WhatsApp launches campaign to fight misinformation, raise user awareness
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New Delhi: In an effort to raise user knowledge of its safety features and stop the spread of misinformation on the service, WhatsApp has started a safety campaign called "Check the Facts."
The month-long campaign showcases the built-in product features, safety measures (including block and report) and forward labels (that help users identify false information and stop it from spreading) of the messaging platform owned by Meta.
It encourages people to verify information that sounds suspicious or inaccurate via fact-checking organisations on WhatsApp Channels, according to a statement, PTI reported.
"WhatsApp has launched an integrated safety campaign 'Check the Facts' in an effort to drive user awareness around WhatsApp's safety features and promote digital best practices that help prevent the spread of misinformation on the platform and empower people to take control of their messaging experience," it said.
While there is no single action that can help prevent the spread of misinformation and fake news online, WhatsApp's 'Check the Facts' campaign serves as a simple safety guide to fight misinformation.
The campaign touches upon aspects like understanding when a message is forwarded, blocking and reporting suspicious accounts, and following fact-checking organisations on WhatsApp Channels to receive accurate information.