These WhatsApp viral messages hit wall after forwarding limits introduced
WhatsApp claims that viral or ‘highly forwarded’ messages on the platform have been reduced by around 70 per cent since the app introduced new forwarding limits. The new measures were introduced at the beginning of April in response to the spread of coronavirus-related misinformation on the service. The new limit ensured that any message that has already been forwarded by five or more people can now only be forwarded to a single person or group.
WhatsApp Option
WhatsApp users still have the option to manually forward messages to group or individual chats. Yet, there has been a major cut in the spread of viral messages. However, there is no way to determine if these messages had misinformation that WhatsApp is trying to halt. (Photo: Reuters)
Curbing Misinformation
The platform has been criticised in the past for its inability to contain the spread of misinformation on its platform. The Facebook-owned app allows 256 participants in a group which makes it easier to spread bews quickly between a large number of users. (Photo: Reuters)
WhatsApp Status Change
Last month, WhatsApp also made a change to its Status section. The instant messaging platform has now put a limit on the Status to reduce the load on its servers. The company has restricted the ability to status videos to 15 seconds from earlier 30 seconds. (Photo: Reuters)
The platform is reportedly witnessing a massive surge in the European markers. However, according to WhatsApp tracker WABetainfo, the change has been rolled out in India which also happens to be WhatsApp’s largest market. WhatsApp’s siblings Instagram and Facebook has also seen a jump in usage. (Photo: Reuters)
WhatsApp Use To Fight Corona
The Facebook-owned platform is being used by several governments and organisations to spread awareness about coronavirus. India was one of the first countries to embrace the platform to launch an interactive-automated helpline number for the pandemic. Australia and UK are also providing the information through the platform. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has already announced a similar tool to help inform users on the pandemic. (Photo: Reuters)