NEW DELHI: WhatsApp said on Tuesday that to curb the spread of misinformation, it is announcing a new limit so frequently forwarded messages can only be forwarded to one chat at a time. WhatsApp said this limit kicks in once a message has been previously forwarded 5 times or more.
WhatsApp also said it is beta testing a feature to empower users to find out more information around forwarded messages.
That idea involves displaying a magnifying glass icon next to these frequently forwarded messages, giving users the option to send that message to a web search where they can find news results or other sources of information.
“Double-checking these messages before forwarding may help reduce the spread of rumors. This feature is currently in testing and we’ll keep you updated on next steps,” WhatsApp said.
In January 2019 WhatsApp had announced limits on forwarded messages to constrain virality. It also introduced new privacy settings and an invite system to help users decide who can add them to groups.
WhatsApp said it bans two million accounts per month for attempting to send bulk or automated messages.
The company also announced the WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Hub in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and UNDP last month.
The messaging app said the WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Hub has been launched to provide simple, actionable guidance for health workers, educators, community leaders, nonprofits, local governments and local businesses that rely on platform to communicate.
WhatsApp Down? Try These Seven Apps To Stay Connected Instead
No WhatsApp, No Worries!
3 Nov, 2017
WhatsApp’s global outage is driving the users around the world crazy. These apps will ensure that you are always in sync with your friends.
Find My Friends
14 Aug, 2017
To find your friend (or family) is never a hassle when you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The Find My Friends app lets you share your location with friends and vice-versa. If you don’t want to be followed, you can hide your location. It also lets you set up location-based alerts that can notify you when a friend arrives at the airport, or your friend arrives home safely after a late night out.
Available in iOS
(Image: www.itunes.apple.com)
SKOUT
14 Aug, 2017
Skout works on proximity and preferences, like a dating app, but for friends. Check it out if you are open to making new friends in a new place. You can get updates from nearby users, buy and send gifts for them, share photos or simply see who’s checking you out. The app also matches you with people you want to chat with, whether they are nearby or in a city you want to visit.
Available in Android, iOS
(Image: www.skout.com)
Glympse
14 Aug, 2017
If you are looking for a crossplatform, thirdparty location sharing service, then Glympse is your best option. It lets you share realtime location using GPS tracking with your friends, and comes with a ton of features. You can send a notifi cation called a ‘glympse’ via email, SMS, Facebook or Twitter to your friend(s). The app can also be integrated into Garmin’s Navigation software.
Available in Android, iOS
(Image: www.glympse.com)
Splitwise
14 Aug, 2017
We all love eating out with friends and exploring new restaurants. Splitwise takes the trouble out of sharing the expenses — with friends, with roommates, or anyone. It’s an impressive IOU manager, helping you and your friends keep all your debts straight and easily payable. You can add individual friends from your address book or set up a group.