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WhatsApp testing new fact-checking feature for messages, report says

The feature could help the app better combat misinformation.

shelbybown
shelbybown
Shelby Brown Editor II
Shelby Brown (she/her/hers) is an editor for CNET's services team. She covers tips and tricks for apps, operating systems and devices, as well as mobile gaming and Apple Arcade news. Shelby also oversees Tech Tips coverage. Before joining CNET, she covered app news for Download.com and served as a freelancer for Louisville.com.
Credentials
  • She received the Renau Writing Scholarship in 2016 from the University of Louisville's communication department.
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Shelby Brown
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WhatsApp could make it easier to parse through false information.

 Angela Lang/CNET

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new fact-checking feature for messages. In the beta version of the Android app, users have been able to select an option to check the web for more context after receiving a message, according to a report from TechCrunch on Saturday. Previously users could only fact-check images sent on the app. 

WhatsApp is an instant messaging and calling service owned by Facebook . 

"We are working on new features to help empower users to find out more information about the messages they receive that have been forwarded many times. This feature is currently in testing, and we look forward to rolling it out in the near future," a WhatsApp spokesperson told TechCrunch in a statement.

CNET has reached out to WhatsApp, and we'll update when we hear back. Features in testing are not always a guarantee that they'll be launched to the public. 

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