WhatsApp Tip-line is a data collection project, not real helpline
A few days back, we all lauded WhatsApp for launching 'Tip-line', a seemingly powerful helpline to combat the problem of fake news. The service was believed to be a fact-checking facility for WhatsApp users, but as it turns out, it is actually a data collection project for research on misinformation. Meaning, it will not help everyone looking to verify news/messages.
Checkpoint Tip-line: A research project
Following the launch of WhatsApp Tip-line, users started sharing suspicious messages, hoping to receive a response. However, Proto, the start-up that partnered with WhatsApp for the project, soon issued a detailed FAQ page noting that the Tip-line was actually a research project. It said that its main goal is to collect fake news in circulation to help WhatsApp determine next steps to tackle it.
So, don't expect response for every suspicious message
Proto clearly stated that they'd collect data which wouldn't have been accessible given the "nature of private messaging" but might not be able to provide a response to every user. "The information provided by users helps us understand potential misinformation in a particular message, and when possible, we will send back a message to users," the organization added.
Huge chunk of messages is the problem
The huge chunk of fake messages spreading through WhatsApp is something that cannot be addressed by Proto's team. The company says, "We would like to verify every rumor but we know that will not be possible given the diversity of information we will receive and the limitations of any verification research." To note, hundreds of hoaxes spread on WhatsApp every day.
Even WhatsApp backed Proto's position
In a statement to BuzzFeed News, a spokesperson for WhatsApp stood by Proto, claiming that the original announcement of the Tip-line wasn't aimed at giving the impression that every user sharing suspicious messages would receive a confirmation.
