Facebook tests 'context' button in bid to crack down on fake news

Facebook is testing a new "context" button that would allow users to get more information about who is supplying a news story.

In the latest move by the US social media company to curb so-called fake news, the new feature will provide instant information about the source of a news article.

A Facebook blog post signed by product managers Andrew Anker, Sara Su and Jeff Smith said: "We are testing a button that people can tap to easily access additional information without needing to go elsewhere.

"The additional contextual information is pulled from across Facebook and other sources, such as information from the publisher's Wikipedia entry."

In some cases if the information is not available, "Facebook will let users know, which can also be helpful context", the blog said.

"Helping people access this important contextual information can help them evaluate if articles are from a publisher they trust, and if the story itself is credible."

Facebook has been battling to stem the flood of fake news, hoaxes and disinformation which dogged the 2016 US presidential election.

Some of the fake news is believed to have come from Russian sources.

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