Today, the spread of false information, whether on purpose or accidentally, is on the rise. In an effort to address this expanding issue, numerous agencies and internet firms that employ user-generated material are in a scramble. Google has now described its fact-checking operations across certain platforms, including YouTube, in light of the current circumstances.
First off, a $13.2 million grant for the International Fact-Checking Network has been announced by Google and YouTube. In order to combat the dissemination of false information in more than 80 languages, this will help the establishment of a Global Fact Check Fund, which will provide financial support to 135 fact-checking organisations scattered over 65 nations. It will launch in early 2023 and is the largest award that Google and YouTube have ever given in this field.
Google has launched or is currently testing numerous fact-checking tools across a variety of services. In Google News, Images, and Search, fact checks from independent groups are highlighted. With plans for a soon-to-be-expanded deployment, panels to provide further information are also available on YouTube in six countries. Additionally, the Fact Check Explorer tool enables anybody to confirm any claims made about a subject or individual.
Additionally, the Breaking News sidebar, which displays developing content from reliable sources, appears in YouTube search results when pertinent. In a similar vein, Google Search will notify you via a notice if the topic you are searching for does not yet have comprehensive results. Before you choose to delve more into a search result, Google Search’s “About this result” option can be used.
Google added the following:
To combat misinformation, we consistently invest in our partnerships, programs, and products. For fact-checking organisations interested in learning more about the platform and best practises for video content strategy and engagement, YouTube will start hosting training sessions in the new year. In order to assist viewers in identifying and assessing false material, YouTube most recently introduced Hit Pause, a media literacy effort. Through the Google News Initiative, Google also continues to collaborate with groups that promote media literacy. Since 2018, the Google News Initiative has contributed close to $75 million to initiatives and alliances that aim to improve media literacy and thwart disinformation globally. On top of that dedication, we have given the IFCN a gift.
Google and YouTube are committed to continuing to do our part in assisting you in finding what you’re searching for and providing you with the context you need to make sense of what you see online. And we’re dedicated to keeping up our support for the fact-checking groups and journalists who are leading the charge against false information.
