Facebook first took the lead with a $20 million donation to support COVID-19 relief efforts, and in a later move made some helpful new additions to Facebook and Messenger to enable people to better connect.
Recognising we all be informed throughout the pandemic, Facebook has launched an Information Centre and Information Hub to help stop the misinformation.
It helps if you know what the common scams are so you can avoid them. If, for instance, you are sent something that looks legitimate but does not clearly come from a credible source like the World Health Organisation, treat it with a healthy amount of scepticism. Personally, I’ve been surprised by how many times I’ve been sent information by friends that suggest drinking hot water in the morning will help you avoid coronavirus.
Australian Information Centre
The Australian Information Centre is easy to access on your Facebook page. It is a hub which provides the latest information and resources from reliable health sources that include ways to stay safe and hygienic during the pandemic.
Relevant information such as best practices for prevention and what to do when you’re not feeling well, as well as tips for staying connected while social distancing. There are also regular notifications from local and health authorities.
The Information Centre can be found here and at the top of your News Feed.
Messenger from Facebook Information Hub
Messenger from Facebook provides:
How to avoid common scams and imposters that may try to capitalise on the COVID pandemic – check out this video on common internet scams and how to avoid them on common internet scams and how to avoid them.
- How to avoid scams.
- Best practices for community leaders, educators, and small businesses to remain connected to their people during times of uncertainty
- Ways for parents to keep their kids socially involved with their peers through Messenger Kids (not yet available in Australia)– Parents can set up virtual playdates in a safe and fun environment with Messenger KidsBest practices for community leaders, educators, and small businesses to remain connected to their people during times of uncertainty
The Messenger Hub can be found here.
