Google, Facebook, Reddit, more commit to jointly combat digital COVID-19 misinformation

Major tech companies join together to combat coronavirus misinformation on the web. Image: AFP?Kena Betancur

Earlier today, March 17, a collection of the biggest companies in technology made a joint industry statement expressing their combined commitment to combat COVID-19 misinformation. The statement published, made on behalf of Facebook, Google, LinkedIn, Microsoft, Reddit, Twitter and YouTube, reads:

“We are working closely together on COVID-19 response efforts. We’re helping millions of people stay connected while also jointly combating fraud and misinformation about the virus, elevating authoritative content on our platforms, and sharing critical updates in coordination with government healthcare agencies around the world. We invite other companies to join us as we work to keep our communities healthy and safe.”

The technology industry is working closely together in coordination with government healthcare agencies around the world on COVID-19 response efforts. Read our full statement. pic.twitter.com/Xn0fhyJLXm

— Google Public Policy (@googlepubpolicy) March 17, 2020

Though none of the companies revealed yet what this commitment entails, each has already been busy at work independently fighting the spread of coronavirus misinformation on their respective platforms. Not only have they been reducing inaccurate and dangerous COVID-19-related content, but also they have been providing their users with educational and accurate information provided by nationally- or internationally-recognized health authorities.

It is likely that this joint effort will include elevated removal of fake coronavirus news and an increase in advertising credits for official health campaigns. RGA

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