WhatsApp Messenger, a freeware and cross-platform messaging and Voice-over IP service owned by Facebook has informed the Election Commission in India that it will take necessary action to curtail the misuse of its platform, before the next elections. Further adding, it will bring in a ‘fake news verification model‘ which is has already been put to use in other countries as well. Global Executives of WhatsApp are already in India discussing various issues with policy makers.
Responding to questions from the agency, the Spokesperson of the Company stated, ”Keeping in mind the upcoming elections in the country, WhatsApp is trying to enhance certain features and do away with some. Rounds of discussions are being held with the Election Commission along with Political parties,” adding, “WhatsApp was always meant for personal or a close-circuit use. In the past, we have blocked accounts of those who have tried to hurt the sentiments of people using WhatsApp as a platform.“
Sources tell us that WhatsApp has ensured Election Commission that it will be vigilant and watch out for false, spam messages being circulated specially around elections in States. The Company has also stated that it will bring in ‘Verificado,’ a technique to verify news being circulated via the App. Verificado was first brought into use during the Mexican Elections, and has been used in Brazil in the past.
Whataspp also announced that it will make sure that not more than five messages are forwarded per-person, and will remove the ‘Quick Forward Button’ in an attempt to stop fake news from becoming viral.
