WhatsApp launches Coronavirus Information Hub, donates $1m to IFCN
“We know that our users are reaching out on WhatsApp more than ever at this time of crisis,"
WhatsApp announced the launch of WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Hub in partnership with the World Health Organisation and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), along with a donation of $1m to Poynter Institute's International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN).
The Information Hub that launched today at whatsapp.com/coronavirus will provide simple, actionable guidance for health workers, educators, and everyone who rely on WhatsApp to communicate.
The site also offers general tips and resources for users around the world to reduce the spread of rumours and connect with accurate health information.
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In addition to that, WhatsApp's $1m grant to the IFCN will support fact-checking for the #CoronaVirusFacts Alliance, which spans more than 100 local organisations in at least 45 countries.
Expanding the presence of these IFCN certified fact-checking organisations will help ensure local communities are aware and responding to potential harmful rumours.
"We know that our users are reaching out on WhatsApp more than ever at this time of crisis. So we wanted to provide a simple resource that can help connect people at this time," said Head of WhatsApp Will Cathcart.
Cathcart further added, "We are also pleased to be able to partner with the Poynter Institute to help grow the amount of fact-checking organisations on WhatsApp."
