International fact checking network launches a WhatsApp bot to counter fake news

ongoing coronavirus outbreak has led to a number of fake stories doing rounds on internet. While some fake messs are giving away fake cures for COVID-19, some are claiming virus' origin. It is evident that se fake messs need a fact check to ensure ir credibility, especially on open platforms like social media. WhatsApp messenger has proven to be a preferred platform for various fake news spreaders but w, certain important steps have been taken to ensure that circulation of fake news is curbed. 

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International fact-checking network's WhatsApp chatbot

international fact-checking network has launched a chatbot on WhatsApp which connects to over 80 fact-checking organizations to millions of users. By using this chatbot, users can easily check if content related to COVID-19 has been previously fact-checked by professional checkers. As per reports, since January 2020, almost 4,000 hoaxes related to COVID-19 have been identified in over 74 countries. majority of se hoaxes were shared using social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp and ors. database of chatbot set up by International fact-checking network is updated daily and users can access relevant content at ease of ir smartphones. 

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Users can easily access free chatbox by texting a 'hi' to this number - +1 (727) 2912606. chatbox is currently available only in English, but will soon be available in or langus like Spanish and Hindi. Users can also click on link listed below in order to access fact-checking bot. 

International fact-checking network WhatsApp chatbot -  poy.nu/ifcnbot

director of international fact-checking network, Baybars Orsek, recently revealed through a public statement that hundreds of millions of users rely on WhatsApp to stay in touch. According to director, since torious internet users are using every platform to share fake news, it is important for fact-checkers to put in extra work and find truth.

WhatsApp had previously donated $1 million to international fact-checking network. WhatsApp has been taking important steps to curb spreading of fake news on its platform. Recently, WhatsApp stopped forwarding of messs to over one chat, this has reportedly helped WhatsApp to reduce forwarded messs by 70%. 

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