Faced with mob violence stemming from the spread of ‘hoaxes’ on the messaging and Voice over Internet Protocol platform WhatsApp, the government of India is addressing a serious question: how can these fake rumours be stopped? As Michael McLaughlin writes for the Economic Times, there are several ways to limit the spread and influence of false information. But proposals to have WhatsApp police private communications, or even ban the app entirely, are not going to solve the problem in the long term. If it wants to restrict the influence such rumours — and protect people — the Indian government needs to help its citizens discern between real news and hoaxes and prosecute violent actors. If accomplished, such progress would not only help users become safer, more responsible citizens, but it would also increase the overall digital literacy in India.
