WhatsApp Tries to Keep It Real with New Information Hub

WhatsApp is partnering with the World Health Organization to fight back against the spread of fake news regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.

The popular messaging platform, which has been used to spread disinformation in the past, has established a new Coronavirus Information Hub that went live yesterday. The hub is designed to help users stay connected with friends and family during the pandemic while also providing them with a reliable source of information.

On the hub's web page, WhatsApp has asked users to "share information responsibly" and to think twice about the messages they are sending and receiving. 

WhatsApp states: "Think about the messages that you receive, because not everything you are sent about coronavirus may be accurate. Verify the facts with other trusted official sources or fact checkers. If you aren’t sure something’s true, don’t forward it."

Along with advice on communicating responsibly during a global health crisis, the hub features links to verified stories regarding the coronavirus and featuring WhatsApp. One such story describes how residents of a retirement home in the Marche region of Italy are using the messaging platform to stay in touch with each other and with their families during the national lockdown. 

The new information hub has been created in partnership with UNICEF,  whatsapp tries information