Tell social media platforms: Take action now and implement a virality circuit breaker as a speed bump for disinformation →

Misinformation is causing real-world havoc, especially in the aftermath of two catastrophic hurricanes. As we approach Election Day, harmful lies and misinformation spreading online threaten both disaster response and election integrity.

After Hurricane Helene ripped through six states, leaving more than 225 people dead and communities completely devastated, false claims about rescue efforts and disaster aid were rampant on social media. One viral rumor falsely claimed the federal government was bulldozing towns, while another said victims were only receiving $750 in aid. [1] The spread of these harmful disinformation narratives hurt people already dealing with the impact of a major environmental disaster.

Disinformation has far-reaching and dire consequences, especially in the aftermath of natural disasters. Social media platforms have a duty to stop the spread of dangerous lies and regulate their platforms – but they’re not doing nearly enough.

Platforms can – and should – implement simple design choices that would make a meaningful impact on our information ecosystem. One solution we’ve suggested to the platforms before: virality circuit breakers. [2] These tools automatically flag fast-spreading posts, briefly pausing their amplification and providing users a warning before they engage with them. Think of this feature like a speed bump for misinformation. If platforms can mitigate the spread of misinformation, they can stop it from causing irreversible harm, especially in times of crisis. We need all platforms to act – and fast. Add your name and urge social media platforms to adopt virality circuit breakers.

Misinformation has consequences, and it’s time for social media companies to step up and protect public safety. Platforms must prioritize people over profits and prevent bad actors from weaponizing their algorithms to spread disinformation. Help us demand change from Big Tech and urge them to stop the viral spread of mis-and-disinformation.

The spread of false information during times of disaster puts lives at risk and undermines our responses to disasters. It’s time for platforms to take responsibility and stop this deadly cycle of disinformation.

Thanks for taking action,