New Delhi (NVI): To flatten the misinformation curve and prevent spread of rumours through messaging, WhatsApp today launched a new campaign called ‘check it before you share it’.
The campaign is meant to serve as a simple reminder to always double-check facts before forwarding. This is another step in the company’s multi-year campaign to address rumours.
“WhatsApp continues to serve as a crucial lifeline for people across India during the COVID-19 pandemic. People rely on WhatsApp to communicate with their friends and loved ones, often isolated and separated across long distances. During this time, 90% of messages sent are between two people and we have seen a significant increase in the amount of voice and video calling across India,” the company said in a statement.
Amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, WhatsApp aims to empower people with simple ways of getting accurate and credible information.
The company had last month announced the MyGov helpline to verify covid-19 related information and posts.
To promote the MyGov helpline, the WhatsApp campaign conveys the precautionary measures that people should take to prevent the spread of COVID-19 like to cough in elbows, stay home, wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and to keep social distancing. People will be able to see these ads on Facebook and Instagram, and message the helpline with just one tap, the company said.
“WhatsApp takes the safety of its users very seriously. People across the country are relying on WhatsApp to talk to their loved ones, doctors, teachers and businesses during this challenging time. Our priority is to empower people to directly connect with health officials and government agencies to rely on these credible sources to receive verified updates during the pandemic. This campaign helps convey our collective responsibility and the need to always verify before sharing information.” said Shivnath Thukral, India Head of Public Policy for WhatsApp.
“WhatsApp has taken proactive steps to support MyGov in its endeavour to ensure that people have access to accurate and verified information. Through partnerships with various stakeholders and institutions, together we are making credible information available to everyone. We can all play a part in flattening the misinformation curve, and it all starts with being mindful of the information we choose to share with our communities and loved ones,” said Abhishek Singh, CEO MyGov and President & CEO, National e-Governance Division.
“Right information about Dos and Don’ts also helps in driving behavioral change, so very vital in dealing with this pandemic. We urge people to rely on the MyGov helpline and reach out for timely and reliable health information,” he added.
