WhatsApp Launches New Initiative To Fight Spread Of COVID-19 Misinformation in India

WhatsApp has become a crucial lifeline for people across India who rely on the app to stay connected to their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. To further empower people with simple ways of getting accurate and credible information about COVID-19, WhatsApp has launched a new campaign called 'Check it before you share it'.

'Check it before you share it' campaign acts a reminder for everyone that it is the responsibility of people to double check the facts before forwarding messages to flatten the misinformation curve. It aims to instill behavior that urges users to gain more information about the messages they receive through different ways including reaching out to the MyGov helpline to receive crucial updates or searching the web.

To promote the MyGov helpline, 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.

“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," said Shivnath Thukral, India Head of Public Policy, WhatsApp. "This campaign helps convey our collective responsibility and the need to always verify before sharing information.”