WhatsApp users can now fact-check COVID-19 messages using the new chatbot: How it works

WhatsApp is actively working on minimising the spread of misinformation related to COVID-19. To educate users more about what to and what not to trust about the Coronavirus, WhatsApp has now launched a chatbot in collaboration with Poynter Institute’s International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) that will help fight off fake news on the messaging platform. Right now, it is just available in English but WhatsApp has announced that it will soon be available in Hindi, Spanish and Portuguese soon. The bot is specially made to fact-check information about the Coronavirus. [caption id=“attachment_8198391” align=“alignnone” width=“1024”] Image: Reuters[/caption] With this bot, the WhatsApp users will be put in contact with independent fact-checkers that are present in more than 70 countries and with the largest database of debunked falsehood. All you need to do is simply send a “Hi” on +1 72 72 91 2606 or click on this link. You will see a list of six pointers that include search for fact checks, latest fact checks, tips to fight misinformation, find fact-checkers near me, about us, and privacy. Just type the number mentioned in front of your query and that’s it. [caption id=“attachment_8333641” align=“alignnone” width=“1280”] WhatsApp fact-checking bot.[/caption] As per a statement shared by WhatsApp, “The system is capable of identifying the user’s country via the person’s mobile country code and then providing them with their closest fact-checking organisations. The person can then submit a piece of information for review directly to its local fact-checker or visit its website to learn more about what has been circulating in the region.” The chatbot is available for all users on both Android and iOS.