WhatsApp has imposed a restriction on the transmission of messages between users, a way to combat fake news. The Facebook-owned app will limit messages sent to many users.
If a user receives a forwarded message - which has been forwarded more than five times to the platform - they will only be able to send the message to one person. This change certainly does not completely prevent the spread of false information, because the message can still be passed on to another user, although on the other hand their distribution is significantly limited.
WhatsApp has a constant content of false information, which usually comes as voice or text messages. It is generally said that the information is accurate and has been obtained from someone working in government or higher bodies. It is usually assumed that the source is a relative and is claimed to be secure.
Because WhatsApp messages are encrypted, so they are only allowed to be seen by the sender and recipient, public health officials as well as police authorities find it difficult to track the spread. WhatsApp itself does not monitor the flow of messages on the platform.
On Facebook, deleting and blocking unsafe information is easily manageable, as controllers of treat parties manage to take action, while on WhatsApp it is impossible.
Through mass-forward messages, WhatsApp aims to limit the spread of false information as much as possible.
Sources: CNN, The Guardian
