Facebook's restrictions on Russian state-controlled outlets RT and Sputnik failed to reduce interactions on select pages, especially those reaching Arabic and Spanish-speaking users. Algorithmic reform is needed to address the root problem of information warfare and disinformation. Restricting some outlets is ineffective, and transparency is needed to assess the impact of interventions. Ruptly, another Russian-controlled outlet is still free to game the social media algorithm. Detoxing social media platforms' algorithms offers a more effective policy solution that would protect all users globally from repeat disinformation offenders while defending free expression.

This was published in Tech Policy Press and written by Fadi Quran. Fadi Quran is a campaign director at Avaaz, a global movement to bring people-powered politics to decision-making everywhere.