Meta Criticized for Incoherent Policies on Manipulated Media

An independent oversight board has criticized Meta, the owner of Facebook, for its policies on manipulated media, calling them incoherent and inadequate in tackling the rise of online disinformation ahead of global elections. The board’s review was prompted by the spread of an altered video of President Joe Biden on Facebook, which exposed gaps in Meta’s policy. The board recommended that Meta expand its policy to encompass all forms of manipulated media, regardless of how they were created. It also suggested that Meta should clarify the harms it aims to prevent and label manipulated content rather than removing it. As tech platforms grapple with the challenge of false information online and the need to protect free speech, the board’s recommendations aim to strike a balance between addressing disinformation while safeguarding users’ rights. Meta is currently reviewing the feedback from the oversight board and will respond publicly within 60 days.