As Lok Sabha elections are around the corner, we all read news on a daily basis to stay updated but what about the news we receive on our cellphones through social media? Is it true? If yes, how can you ensure the authenticity of news available on social media platforms?
Well, the fix is here! WhatsApp and Facebook have come up with features to try and tackle all fake news issues. Recently, on April 2, 2019, WhatsApp launched a new feature called the ‘Tip Line’ for users to report misleading content and fake news.
They have created a system in which users can forward offensive messages to an automated account. It is also known that there will be a quality check of news by WhatsApp for which a start-up called Proto will classify messages sent by users as true or false, misleading or disputed.
For example: If you send a message to the Tip Line, Proto’s will respond back informing the user if the claim made in the message is verified or not. You can send a message to 91 + 9643-000-888 to check the authenticity of a message or news you doubt on to. Proto understands English, Hindi, Telugu, Bengali and Malayalam, it is also capable of reviewing pictures, videos and texts in these languages.
But Facebook isn’t lagging behind in this race either as it has features like ‘Candidate Connect’ and ‘Share You Voted,’ in order to boost civic engagement on its platform. Candidate Connect helps you learn more about candidates with the help of short videos and Share You Voted will provide you with polling information and will enable you to announce and celebrate your vote.
On the other hand, social media platforms along with the Internet and Mobile Association of India have agreed to volunteer code of ethics for the 2019 elections in India.
