Meta faces criticism for blocking news links in Canada during a critical moment of wildfires, leaving evacuees without essential updates. Thousands have fled their homes, seeking information once shared on Facebook. Evacuees struggle to access accurate details about the fires in the Northwest Territories and other parts of Canada, raising concerns about public safety.
Meta's decision to halt news distribution came in response to a new law requiring digital giants to pay publishers for news content. The move is seen as jeopardizing lives, with experts and media outlets urging Meta to prioritize humanitarian action over financial concerns. As wildfires rage across Canada, reliable information remains crucial.
Despite calls to lift the ban, Meta insists on its position, suggesting the use of the "Safety Check" function on Facebook. Critics argue that this stance undermines public safety and underscores the need for a resolution that ensures accurate news dissemination during emergencies.