We must all fight the global pandemic of misinformation.

From dangerous claims that drinking bleach is a miracle cure to bogus conspiracy theories that 5G is responsible for the spread of the virus, the web has been inundated with Covid-19 misinformation in recent months.

As the coronavirus has spread across the globe, so too have fake cures, rumours and lies — leading the World Health Organization (WHO) to label the situation as an "infodemic". 

While the web isn’t the cause of misinformation, it helps it spread faster and further than ever before. But it's also a critical tool for governments, health authorities and scientists to provide the public with clear, up-to-date information during this public health crisis.  

Here, we untangle what we must do to fight back against the flood of falsehoods and ensure the web helps keep us informed and safe.

It's never been more important that we come together to fight online misinformation.

🏛  Governments

• Make accurate Covid-19 information widely available and accessible to all
• Never publish or spread misleading information
• Actively counter misinformation while respecting freedom of expression

💼  Companies

• Prominently display accurate health information
• Design products to discourage sharing of misinformation and provide users with clear guidance on how to respond to and report misinformation
• Dedicate emergency resources to limit the spread of misinformation, and remove content when warranted

• Share accurate, credible updates and advice from trusted sources like WHO, public health authorities and reputable news outlets
• Don’t share, quote or reply to misinformation as this engagement can help it spread further
• Use reporting tools available on social media platforms to report misinformation