WhatsApp launches message limit to curb COVID-19 misinformation

Tuesday, 7 April 2020 12:50

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.

More from International

Gaza baby saved from dead mother's womb dies

A baby, who was delivered from her dying mother's womb in a Gaza hospital following an Israeli airstrike, has died after just a few days of life, the doctor who was caring for her said on Friday.
India begins voting in second phase of giant election

India began voting on Friday in the second phase of the world's biggest election, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a record-equalling third straight term.
Northern Gaza still heading toward famine, says deputy WFP chief

The northern Gaza Strip is still heading toward a famine, the deputy UN food chief said on Thursday, appealing for a greater volume and diversity of aid to be allowed into the enclave and for Israel to allow direct access from its Ashdod port through Erez crossing.
Blinken meets Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on Friday for talks across a range of complex issues
Harvey Weinstein's conviction overturned by New York court

New York's highest court has overturned the 2020 conviction of former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, in the case that helped trigger the #MeToo movement.

The Night Shift with Mark Lloyd
8:00pm - 11:00pm

Musicians and music, entertainers and entertainment, industry gossip and songs selected by you, get ready to bring your night time to life! Every evening from eight, Mark Lloyd brings you an energetic mix of local and international content and contests, featuring an array of celebrity interviews and entertaining anecdotes. Get involved in the show and pick your favourite jukebox hits, every night from 8pm - 11pm.
Nights on Dubai Eye 103.8
11:00pm - 7:00am

Dubai Eye complements the conversation with the music you love from the eighties, nineties and newer.

Is there a summer slowdown in the UAE property market?
John Lyons of Espace Real Estate says there is a slight slowdown in the property market during summer. So we asked him, does this mean prices are negotiable during the summer months?
UAE's new prosecution offices to deal with financial crime
Lawyer Rebecca Kelly of Clyde & Co. explained why UAE judicial authorities are setting up new offices to deal with financial crime, including money laundering.
Airalo
Airalo - an eSim company disrupting telco's roaming revenues, has raised $60 million in funding including investment from our own e&.

On Dubai Eye

Flying Taxis
It sounds like an episode of The Jetsons, but the sight of flying taxis whizzing around our cities could be much closer than you think.
Tough penalties for deliberate tax evasion
The UAE has said that tougher penalties will come into force from 1st August for not keeping proper corporate tax records.