People will be able to flag deepfakes by sending it to the WhatsApp chatbot.
The Misinformation Combat Alliance (MCA) has partnered with Meta to introduce a fact-checking helpline on WhatsApp to tackle the rise of AI-generated misinformation, commonly referred to as deepfakes. This collaborative effort aims to empower individuals with verified and credible information amidst the increasing spread of deceptive media. The public can access the helpline starting March 2024, providing support in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu languages.
The establishment of a ‘deepfake analysis unit’ by MCA will centralize the evaluation and verification of incoming messages on the WhatsApp helpline. Working closely with independent fact-checking organizations and industry allies, the unit will debunk false claims and swiftly address misinformation, particularly deepfakes. This proactive approach seeks to address the detection, prevention, reporting, and awareness of deepfakes, equipping citizens with reliable tools to combat misinformation effectively.
Quote from Shivnath Thukral, Director, Public Policy India, Meta:
We recognize the concerns around AI-generated misinformation and believe combatting this requires concrete and cooperative measures across the industry. As a company committed to combating deceptive AI use, our collaboration with MCA to launch a dedicated WhatsApp helpline signifies our ongoing effort to empower users with tools to authenticate information on our platforms.
With the ever-growing user base on WhatsApp, this joint initiative signifies a pivotal step in enhancing information integrity and fostering digital literacy among users. The strategic partnership between Meta and MCA underscores a shared commitment to promote transparency, combat AI-generated misinformation, and uphold the reliability of online content.
