WhatsApp and other messaging services left out of new Australian misinformation code, regulator says

The Australian Communications and Media Authority said it welcomed the new voluntary code of practice on disinformation and misinformation, released in late December but signalled it would continue to push for powers to compel social media companies to hand over information about how they are combatting misinformation and dealing with complaints.

The code also required transparency reporting for services with fewer than 1 million active monthly users in Australia, a change it said will also encourage greater participation by smaller platforms.

Mass or orchestrated direct messages have played a role in false rumours about child abduction spreading in India through WhatsApp and in Australia in the death tax scare campaign at the 2019 election via Facebook messenger.