Twitter expands coronavirus misinformation policy

Twitter is expanding its coronavirus misinformation policy to include a wider variety of content that could put people at risk of transmitting or contracting COVID-19.

Under the new rules announced Wednesday, Twitter will require users to take down posts that deny expert recommendations, promote fake treatments and prevention techniques, or misleadingly claim to be from authorities.

It will also take action against posts alleging that any particular group or nationality is more or less susceptible to coronavirus. 

In a blog post that includes an extended lists of the content violating the new policy, Twitter also said it is adjusting how it locates posts and enforces rules.

The social media platform is increasing its use of machine learning and automation, although no permanent suspensions will be made using automated enforcement.

Twitter is also instituting a triage system to prioritize rule violations that could affect the most people.

The expanded rules come as social media platforms grapple with a surge in misinformation and confusion related to the global pandemic.

Facebook and YouTube have also turned to more automated location and enforcement, especially as content moderators are increasingly working from home and unable to review some sensitive posts.

Facebook on Wednesday also announced it would be putting a coronavirus center at the top of users’ news feeds containing vetted information from authoritative sources.