In an attempt to curb misinformation on its platform as we near the 2020 U.S. presidential election, TikTok is launching an in-app guide to the election, which is rolling out to users in the U.S. today. The guide is accessible on the firm's Discover page or landing pages for election-specific queries. According to the firm, it will be available in English, Spanish, and "dozens of additional languages."
TikTok has partnered with BallotReady, an election-related organization, which will offer users information relating to federal, state, and local candidates. Additionally, the firm will link guides alongside election-related videos posted from verified political accounts. Alex Niemczewski, CEO at BallotReady, remarked:
"On TikTok we're seeing how people, especially younger voters, are passionate about important issues and are ready to make their voices heard. We're partnering with TikTok for their elections guide because younger voters often do not realize everything that will appear on their ballot, and we believe that TikTok can help them vote their entire ballot."
Additionally, the firm is working in collaboration with digital literacy organization MediaWise to surface educational videos about misinformation, media literacy, and the electoral process. The guide will also provide voting resources to people with disabilities, voters who reside overseas, students, and helpful information for those with past convictions.
This update isn't the first time the firm is attempting to combat misinformation on its platform. It banned deepfakes earlier this year (via Engadget) and opened a virtual transparency and accountability center to help users better understand its decisions and policies.
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