External experts to handle fact-checking on Threads social network

## Thread’s Fact-checking Initiative Partners with External Experts

Microblogging platform Threads is set to engage external experts to fact-check content posted on its social network. The initiative aims to counter misinformation, unfounded conspiracy theories, and fake news.

Threads has recently granted its external partners involved in fact-checking the ability to review and evaluate false content on the platform. Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram and Threads, said “In the past, we’ve matched nearly identical false content on Threads with facts reviewed on Facebook and Instagram. However, fact-checking experts can now independently evaluate Threads content.”

Previously, Threads content underwent fact-checking, but this only applied to disinformation previously flagged on Instagram or Facebook. Though this approach provided some level of protection, Threads remained vulnerable to first-time misinformation publishings. Now, the task of solving this problem is delegated to third-party experts hired by the owning company, Meta.

## Threads’ Functionalities and Challenges Ahead

One of the independent fact-checking specialists complained about the absence of chronological results in the desktop version of Threads search function. Launched in July of last year, the platform has been integral in adding features, gradually evolving from a textual add-on of Instagram into a stand-alone social network. This metamorphosis was aided through Meta’s release of the Threads web version, an inclusion of a trending topics section, the option for limiting quotation of posts by other users, and improvements to its search feature.

However, the search feature remains underdeveloped, while for personal messaging, users are redirected to Instagram. Fact-checking on this social network doesn’t necessarily imply the eradication of fakes. Misleading posts may not be removed, but instead, gain tags indicating their deceptive nature. Posts with such tags are downgraded by the platform’s search and recommendation algorithms.