Meta Launches 'Community Notes' to Combat Misinformation on Social Platforms

Meta announced the rollout of its 'Community Notes' feature on February 19. This initiative allows users to become contributors, adding background information to posts that may contain misleading or lacking context across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. Contributors can provide clarifications, context, and warnings about inaccuracies. Meta states that it will not interfere with the content of the notes, but all notes must adhere to Meta's community standards and are limited to 500 characters, including references. The feature is currently being tested in the U.S. for users over 18 with accounts older than six months, good standing, and verified contact information. Meta plans to expand this feature to other countries in the future. The launch follows Meta's discontinuation of its third-party fact-checking program earlier this year. Concerns have been raised about the potential for manipulation and bias, similar to issues experienced with X's (formerly Twitter) Community Notes.