Search the Web: New WhatsApp feature helps verify fake news

WhatsApp has added “Search the Web”, a new feature to help prevent the spreading of fake or inaccurate information.

Search the Web encourages double-checking messages

To help WhatsApp users verify the information they receive, WhatsApp has a magnifying glass button that appears on forwarded messages. However, it only applies to messages that have been forwarded many times — a special forwarded label will be attached to these messages.

Once users tap on the magnifying glass icon, they’ll be offered the option to search the web for related content. This will help them discover the authenticity and accuracy of their news.

Experimental feature available to selected countries only

However, the new feature is currently experimental and is only available to certain countries including Brazil, Italy, Ireland, UK and US. “Search the Web” is available on Android, iOS and WhatsApp Web.