In the News: Meta Removing Their Fact-Checking System
January 15, 2025
Meta just announced they will stop using third-party fact-checkers on their platforms, including Facebook, Threads, and Instagram. Instead, they'll use a new "community notes" system, where users can rate and add context to posts. Check out what the GoodforMEdia youth advisors think about this change.
What you need to know:
Meta announced they will end their fact-checking program which was implemented to stem the spread of misinformation across its platforms.
Now they will rely on users to add community notes to posts that may contain false or misleading information.
Zuckerberg acknowledged that as a result more “bad stuff” would spread on the platform, but that it was a necessary “trade-off” to prevent erroneously removing some people’s posts through the fact-checking process.
Our gut reactions:
This is happening right after Zuckerberg met with Trump and seems like it’s being done for political favor.
No consequence for posting something blatantly wrong now.
Notes could encourage more community involvement, but can’t replace professional fact checking. There is a real risk of spreading misinformation even faster. Not everyone has the knowledge or motivation to provide accurate notes.
We think it’s headed in the…
Right direction
Wrong direction
Too soon to tell
What to look out for:
How does Meta plan to ensure their platforms remain trustworthy spaces?
How will it impact our daily experiences on Instagram or other Meta platforms? Will we see more harmful posts as a result?
Will this be a trend across other platforms?
What will the role of watchdog organizations be now?
We want to hear from you!
What do you think about this move? Will it change how you use these platforms? Comment on our Instagram post.