Meta Bans Fact-Checkers: The Rise of Viral Misinformation

Meta is making significant changes to its content moderation strategy in the U.S., which may lead to an increase in the spread of misinformation. As the company phases out its third-party fact-checking programs, it is simultaneously reintroducing a bonus program for creators that rewards them for viral content.

Changes in Meta’s Fact-Checking Programs

According to ProPublica, the timing of these changes could exacerbate the dissemination of false information across social media platforms. Here are some key points regarding Meta’s recent policy shifts:

• Meta is deprioritizing its third-party fact-checking initiatives.
• Content creators will now be able to monetize posts previously labeled as false by fact-checkers.
• The company’s new approach will mirror X’s Community Notes, allowing select users to flag misleading content.

Impact on Content Moderation

As the transition away from traditional fact-checking begins, misinformation is already circulating widely. For example, a Facebook page manager recently promoted a viral, false claim suggesting that ICE would pay individuals $750 for reporting undocumented immigrants. This manager described the end of the fact-checking program as “great information.”

Future of Fact-Checking at Meta

Meta plans to complete the transition away from its fact-checking setup by March. Until then, the implications of this policy change are already being felt, raising concerns among users and experts alike about the potential for increased misinformation.

For more insights on social media policies and their effects, you can explore related articles on social media trends and fact-checking initiatives.

TechCrunch has reached out to Meta for further comments, but the company has yet to respond.