At Maldita.es, we know that in order to fight disinformation we need to be where information is shared and, above all, where disinformation circulates. That is why we are launching a channel, Maldita.es, in the new WhatsApp Channels feature to share debunks of hoaxes and disinformation that reach people’s phones, as well as context and explainers to help people make informed decisions and not be misled. And not only that: in our dedicated Alerta Timo channel you will find everything you need to avoid falling for scams circulating online.
In this way, the Maldita.es Foundation adds a new tool to its strategy on this platform, where since 2020 it has operated a fact-checking chatbot on WhatsApp (+34 644 229 319), the first in Spanish in the world to automatically verify hoaxes, which also offers an interactive course to learn how to detect disinformation.
How can you follow us?
And for the Alerta Timo channel 👇
But here’s another way to find our channels.
You can go to the WhatsApp app and click on the “Updates” tab. Once there, below the status updates, you will see the option to “Search channels.”
Remember that to access this service it is important to have your WhatsApp app updated to its latest version.
What you will find on Maldita.es’s two channels against hoaxes and scams
WhatsApp channels are one-way, meaning that we can only receive messages sent by the channel and react with emojis to some posts. If you are familiar with Telegram, the way it works will probably remind you of that platform.
The Maldita.es team does not want to overwhelm you with content: we will not share everything we do (which is a lot). On the Maldita.es and Alerta Timo channels you will find everything from debunked hoaxes to tools to help you build your own defence against disinformation, as well as explanatory content to give you full context. This is curated content that takes into account criteria such as virality, relevance and usefulness, at any given time or in any situation.
- Maldita.es, where you will receive debunks of hoaxes as well as useful advice against disinformation that may reach your phone.
- Alerta Timo, where you will receive alerts about scams, phishing and fraud attempts circulating via SMS, email or phone calls.
You will see that Maldita.es channels have a green badge next to them: this means they have been verified by the platform and are authentic. Maldita.es is one of the channels selected and verified for being a verified member of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN). Follow us, we’re waiting for you!
Here you can read the summary of this article adapted into easy-to-read format by Plena Inclusión.