Meta changes controversial cross-checking program on FB, Instagram
Meta (formerly Facebook) has agreed to modify Facebook and Instagram’s cross-checking program to make it more transparent through regular reporting.
The cross-verification program frees high-profile users from the automated monitoring system.
Responding to the 32 recommendations made by the independent monitoring board on its cross-checking system, Meta said it would implement 11 fully, 15 partially, still assess the feasibility of one and take no further action on five.
“This will lead to significant changes in how the system works in response to feedback we have received from the government and other stakeholders we have been dealing with over many years,” the social network said.
In particular, Meta is making cross-checking more transparent through regular reporting and fine-tuning its listing criteria to better take into account human rights interests and fairness.
“We are also changing the operating systems for cross-checking to help reduce the backlog of review requests and reduce the time it takes to process cases,” Meta said.
The oversight board said many aspects of Meta’s response did not go as far as “we recommended to achieve a more open and fair system”.
“Meta rejects the government’s proposal that high-profile users could seek the protection afforded by cross-checking,” it tweeted.
As part of the government’s unique role, “we and the general public were informed about Meta’s systems and policies. We intend to use this information to inform future recommendations and initiatives,” it added.
The watchdog said it would continue to respond to Meta’s specific responses in the coming days and weeks.
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