Facebook tests pop-up in US that asks users if friend ‘turns extremist’

Facebook is testing in the United States to show users a pop-up asking if they are concerned about a friend becoming an extremist. The company confirms the test and reports that it is part of several measures to ward off extremism on Facebook.

Last week, for the first time, the message appeared with the question ‘Are you concerned about someone you know becoming an extremist?’. Opposite CNN confirms Facebook’s test with the pop-up. The test is part of Facebook’s program to ward off extremism on the platform.

According to Facebook spokesman Andy Stone, Facebook intends to “provide assistance to users who may have come across extremist content or who may know someone who may be at risk”. According to Stone, this initiative involves collaboration with organizations and experts.

The report redirects users to a page where they are referred to various organizations that try to counter (online) hate. For example, there is an aid group that helps people to leave violent, right-wing extremist groups.

Facebook regularly receives criticism for how it deals with hateful and violent content on the platform. Critics say Facebook is not doing enough to remove malicious content and protect its users.