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WhatsApp launches message limit to curb COVID-19 misinformation

Tuesday, 7 April 2020 12:50

iStock [illustration]

WhatsApp has placed new limits on forwarding of messages to help slow down misinformation on COVID-19.

It explained through a blog post that messages identified as "highly forwarded" can only be shared to one chat a time.

"We believe it's important to slow the spread of these messages down to keep WhatsApp a place for personal conversation," the statement said.

WhatsApp, which has more than 2 billion users worldwide, said the new limit was in place indefinitely.

These are efforts undertaken to curb a spike in inaccurate medical advice being shared on the platform since the start of the coronavirus crisis.

Globally, the coronavirus has infected more than 1,305,000 people and killed over 74,000.

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