Facebook and Instagram Modify Cross-Check Program in Response to Oversight Board Recommendations

Facebook and Instagram have responded to the Oversight Board's recommendations by agreeing to modify their cross-check program. This program exempts high-profile users from the company’s automated moderation system. 

The updated blog post published by the company shares their response to the recommendation, including making the cross-check system “more transparent” and changing the criteria used to add people to the program. 

The changes to the cross-check program will make it “more transparent” by including regular reports on how the program is functioning. This will help to ensure that the program is not being used to unfairly exclude certain users from the automated moderation system. 

The criteria used to add people to the program will also be modified to better account for human rights interests and equity, meaning that the program will not be used to unfairly target certain users.

The company also stated that it is working with civil society organizations and other stakeholders to ensure that the changes to the program will not negatively affect any user’s experience on the platform. This includes making sure that the changes do not lead to any adverse outcomes, such as users being unfairly excluded from the automated moderation system. 

The company also stated that it is working to ensure that the changes to the program are implemented in a way that is consistent with the company’s values and policies. This includes making sure that the changes are consistent with the company’s commitment to protecting human rights and promoting equity.

The changes to Facebook and Instagram's cross-check programs are an important step toward creating a more equitable and transparent platform. The changes will ensure that high-profile users are not unfairly excluded from the automated moderation system while also taking into account the interests of human rights and equity. 

Do you think the changes to the cross-check program are a good step forward for Facebook and Instagram? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts!