WhatsApp has put restrictions on bulk message forwarding in an effort to crack down on misinformation . This is due to the fact that WhatsApp, like other apps, has seen a significant increase in users spreading hoaxes, rumors , and other types of false information about COVID-19 and other events. So, now bulk message forwarding will stop and users will be able to share information on a smaller scale. In other words, they will now only be able to forward a message to one conversation at a time.
WhatsApp is also testing a feature that will display a magnifying glass next to such messages. Users will then be able to click on it and go to a web search for a message. When searching, they will be able to find articles that prove whether the content of a message is true or not. In case the search shows that a message contains content that is not true, users will not be able to forward it to others. These measures are intended to prevent users from forwarding messages that are not verified and may contain false information. In addition, WhatsApp pointed out that mass forwarding can lead to the spread of misinformation. The application has already identified messages that have been forwarded multiple times, adding a double arrow next to them to indicate that they do not come from a close and familiar contact. Now each message marked with a double arrow can only be forwarded to one conversation, while previously it could be forwarded to five conversations at once.
The five-chat limit was introduced in January 2019, resulting in a 25% reduction in the forwarding of unverified messages, WhatsApp said. WhatsApp also said that the feature was not intended to stop all forwarding or viral messages, but to encourage users to be more careful about the content they share. However, it clarifies that not all messages sent are dangerous, as many users promote useful information as well as funny videos or memes. In recent weeks, users have been using WhatsApp to show their support for doctors working daily against COVID-19. At the same time, however, there have been incidents of scams that exploit the pandemic, contributing to the spread of misinformation.
