Misinformation and Fake News Being Spread Across Social Network Platforms Regarding the Coronavirus

A young boy wearing a facemask as a preventative measure following a coronavirus outbreak which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan, reacts as he and thousands line up to purchase face masks from a makeshift stall after queueing for hours following a registration process in which they were given a pre-sales ticket, in Hong Kong on February 5, 2020. - The new coronavirus which appeared late December has claimed nearly 500 lives, infected more than 24,000 people in mainland China and spread to more than 20 countries. (Photo by Anthony WALLACE / AFP) (Photo by ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP via Getty Images)

ANTHONY WALLACE/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES

The social media network Twitter has been a platform at the center of the spread of misinformation on the Coronavirus due to users posting unverified conspiracy theories related to the origins of the virus. However, Twitter has taken steps to give users of the network reliable information when they search keywords like “Wuhan” or “Coronavirus” by having a message stating “know the facts” pop-up which is linked to the users local health authority. Twitter, Facebook, and Google have also prioritized searches from credible health authorities when users make searches related to the virus. For more information click here.