Meta has begun testing Community Notes, a fact-checking system similar to X’s, across its apps in the U.S. The trial, which launched on March 18, allows users to collaboratively write and rate fact-checks on posts. Unlike traditional fact-checking that relied on independent media organizations, this system introduces a community-driven approach. However, Meta will initially limit the feature’s rollout, keeping notes private while refining the system.
The company first introduced third-party fact-checking in December 2016 in response to rising misinformation concerns after the U.S. presidential election. Over 100 fact-checking organizations participated in the initiative, identifying false or misleading content. Meta reduced the distribution of flagged posts and added warning labels to limit their spread. However, in January, Meta ended its partnership with these third-party fact-checkers, arguing that expert organizations were not immune to political bias. The move signaled a shift toward decentralized fact-checking and increased transparency in content moderation.
Community Notes now serve as Meta’s alternative to centralized fact-checking. Users can submit, write, and rate notes on posts that may contain misleading or inaccurate information. The system mirrors X’s Community Notes, which emerged as a decentralized fact-checking solution after Elon Musk took over the platform.
Meta has confirmed that any U.S.-based user can apply to participate, but access will remain restricted initially. The company will admit contributors gradually and randomly while refining the rating system and note-writing process. Unlike previous fact-checking initiatives, Community Notes will not affect a post’s visibility. Meta will not downrank or remove flagged content; instead, notes will provide additional context without limiting reach.
To contribute, users must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old, enabling two-factor authentication, and maintaining a Meta account in good standing for at least six months. Notes must remain under 500 characters and include a source link for context or evidence. Additionally, contributors’ names will remain anonymous, ensuring evaluations focus on content rather than individuals. At launch, Community Notes will support English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and Portuguese, with plans to expand to more languages.
Although Meta positions Community Notes as a scalable alternative to traditional fact-checking, its effectiveness remains uncertain. X’s version has struggled with slow response times and inconsistent fact-checking standards, raising concerns about similar issues in Meta’s implementation. Since flagged content will no longer face downranking, misinformation could still spread widely despite added context. Whether Community Notes can effectively curb misinformation without enforcement mechanisms remains to be seen.
