WhatsApp is introducing new features to curb the spread of fake news and doctored videos after alarming incidents of mob violence fueled by child-kidnap rumours shared on the platform. The Indian government has called for action following the tragic deaths of at least 18 people this year, who were lynched based on false information circulated on WhatsApp.
The rumours, particularly ones warning of child abduction gangs, have led to violent mob attacks across India. In June, a woman in Gujarat was killed by a mob that falsely believed she was attempting to abduct children. Similar incidents have occurred in Assam, Maharashtra, and other regions.
In one case, three men begging for alms were mistaken for child kidnappers and nearly lynched by a crowd. The rumours about a child kidnapping gang in the area had inflamed tensions. In another incident, five men were beaten to death in Maharashtra based on similar suspicions.
A viral, doctored video originating from Pakistan showed a staged child abduction, which sparked further violence. The video, which was presented as CCTV footage, was manipulated to make it appear like an actual kidnapping. Mob mentality took over as people watched these videos and responded with deadly violence.
WhatsApp, with over 200 million users in India, has become a primary source of news and information. However, the rapid spread of false information has resulted in tragic consequences. The Indian government has demanded that WhatsApp implement stricter controls to prevent further harm.
In response, WhatsApp is enhancing its features to detect and limit the circulation of misleading and harmful content, aiming to reduce the risk of more violence. The Indian government has made it clear that the misuse of the platform, especially when it leads to innocent people being killed, is unacceptable.