Meta to End U.S. Fact-Checking Program on April 7, Launching Community Notes
Meta will replace its fact-checking initiative with a user-driven moderation system, sparking concerns about misinformation and harmful content.
- Meta confirmed its U.S. fact-checking program will officially end on Monday, April 7, 2025, transitioning to a Community Notes system on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
- The Community Notes feature allows users to add context to posts, with contributions requiring agreement from diverse viewpoints before publication.
- CEO Mark Zuckerberg framed the move as a return to free expression, aligning with broader policy changes, including relaxed moderation rules and the removal of penalties for flagged posts.
- Critics warn the shift could lead to increased misinformation and harm to marginalized groups, as Meta reduces its reliance on professional content moderation.
- The transition aligns with the Trump administration's inauguration, with Meta pledging to combat censorship abroad and facing scrutiny over perceived political bias.