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CMA Foundation · Fundamentals of Business Laws and Business Communication · Do's and Don'ts of Communication through Social Media

A finance manager shares an unverified WhatsApp forward claiming a rival Mumbai bank is about to fail, adding 'forwarded as received'. Which statement is most accurate?

He should not share the unverified claim. Forwarding misinformation about a bank can spread panic and expose him and his employer to defamation and reputational risk. Adding 'forwarded as received' or deleting the post later does not remove responsibility for harm already done.

  1. AThe disclaimer protects him because he did not originate the message
  2. BNo issue arises as the message is already widely circulating
  3. CHe should not share unverified content, as it may spread misinformation and expose him and his employer to legal and reputational riskCorrect
  4. DIt is acceptable if he later deletes the message

Explanation

Sharing unverified claims amplifies misinformation and can attract liability such as defamation. 'Forwarded as received' is no defence, and deletion later does not undo the harm already caused by screenshots and forwards.

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