Following global concerns that its platform was being used to spread fake news, WhatsApp has limited the number of times users can forward a message to five times.
Originally, there was no limit to the number of times users could forward messages to others, however, last year, the company reduced the number to 20, to limit the amount of information that goes viral on the app.
In India, WhatsApp’s largest market, the number was reduced to five following the deaths of several individuals as a result of false rumours spread via WhatsApp.
Starting today, the company is rolling out the new forward limit globally to curb the spread of fake news, audio hoaxes, manipulated photos and videos.
Android users will reportedly receive the update first. It’ll be available on iOS afterwards.
“Branding and marketing for small businesses” is the theme for the 2nd edition of our SME Clinic. Find out how you can participate here.
Love to write? Looking to build a career in tech journalism? Techpoint is organising a Writer Bootcamp; you could land a 6-month paid internship with us. Find out more here.
Nigerian startups raised $17.6m in Q1 2019, 8.5% higher than they did in Q1 2018. Find out more in the latest quarterly edition of the Nigerian Startup Funding Report here.
Social media junkie at Techpoint. I’m always open to new experiences. Get in touch.
