Pinterest is cracking down on misinformation.
The platform debuted an improved initiative to combat vaccine-related misinformation on Wednesday, in collaboration with global health organizations. Last year, the social media site disabled results for health searches frequently connected to scientifically inaccurate information, namely "vaccines". Instead of giving a platform to anti-vax content, a message appears, telling users, "If you're looking for medical advice, please contact a healthcare provider."
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In a statement to The Guardian, Isabelle Sahinovic of the Vaccine Safety Network praised the effort as "a critical addition to the global health community's efforts to tackle incorrect and harmful misinformation online."
Social media platforms are increasingly under fire for their roles in the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and extremism online. Ifeoma Ozoma, a public policy and social impact manager at Pinterest, expressed the company's desire to protect users and maintain a safe and fun experience on the platform, although lack of regulation on other social media sites ultimately compounds the problem.
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