17/03/2020 (Agence Europe) – Online platforms are working together to combat disinformation about the coronavirus pandemic and promote "trusted content" about the crisis. This was reported on 16 March by Facebook, Google, Twitter, Microsoft and Reddit, as well as YouTube (Google) and LinkedIn (Microsoft). "We’re helping millions of people stay connected while also jointly combating fraud and disinformation about the virus, by placing more emphasis on quality content and sharing essential updates". In a separate release, Facebook indicated that it has already taken steps to limit disinformation, including banning advertisements that seek to create panic or promote treatments that have not been proven effective. The company will also mobilise $100 million "to help 30,000 small businesses in more than 30 countries where [its] employees live and work". (SPj)