WhatsApp recently imposed limitations on forwarding frequently forwarded messages to just one person at a time. This has resulted in a 70 per cent drop in forwarded messages.
The Facebook-owned app did so as a part of its measure to stop the spread of misinformation related to coronavirus.
“WhatsApp is committed to doing our part in tackling viral messages. Since putting into place the new limit, globally, there has been a 70 per cent reduction in the number of highly forwarded messages sent on WhatsApp. This change is helping keep WhatsApp a place for personal and private conversations,” a WhatsApp spokesperson told Business Standard.
WhatsApp has partnered by the Indian government to launch MyGov Corona Helpdesk chatbot for coronavirus-related queries to curb fake news and give correct information to people. Users just need to save the number 9013151515 and send a ‘Hi’ to receive free information and updates about COVID-19.
WhatsApp currently has over 400 million users in India.