WhatsApp Highlights its Efforts in Tackling the Spread of Misinformation

At a press briefing in New Delhi, India earlier today, WhatsApp executives highlighted how they are tackling fake accounts and the spread of misinformation on the country’s most popular messaging platform ahead of the nation’s upcoming general election, VentureBeat is reporting.

WhatsApp

The executives said they have developed a machine learning system that detects and filters users who engage in inappropriate behaviour, which includes sending bulk messages and creating multiple accounts, with the sole purpose of spreading questionable information.



They also noted that the system automatically bans fake accounts and people who engage in spreading misinformation at the time of registration, while messaging, or when they are reported by others.

“As with any communications platform, sometimes people attempt to exploit our service. Some may want to distribute click-bait links designed to capture personal information, while others want to promote an idea. Regardless of the intent, automated and bulk messaging violates our terms of service, and one of our priorities is to prevent and stop this kind of abuse,” the company said.

WhatsApp says it also has separate channels, teams, and APIs in place to keep a check on businesses using the platform.

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