Facebook-owned messaging service, WhatsApp, has cracked down on fake news, with users now restricted to forwarding a text up to five times. The previous standard allowed for up to 20 forwards.

The global change comes after launching on WhatsApp India last year, following several mob lynchings based on fake reports sent over the instant messaging service.

WhatsApp asserts the change will keep the platform focused on communication with friends and close contacts.

The company claims it will monitor user feedback, as it seeks to find new ways to properly address viral content.

The news comes as parent company Facebook continues to manage falling user trust, citing several data breaches and the Trump-related Cambridge Analytica scandal.

Facebook has since embarked on a global campaign to delete pages related to spreading fake news, with 500+ accounts reportedly removed.