Q: How do I participate?

A: Easy! Just forward any messages or screenshots of misinformation about COVID-19 that you have received on WhatsApp to our study number: +1-415-409-9085. That's all!

Q: How do I know I’m eligible to participate in this study?

A: If you are a member of the South Asian diaspora community and are over the age of 18, you are eligible to participate by forwarding any messages you have received on WhatsApp to us. If you aren’t South Asian but are part of the South Asian community, you can still message us what you see in your community. For example, if you identify as white, but have family members that identify as South Asian and have a family WhatsApp group message.

Q: What do you mean by South Asian? 

A: South Asia refers to the countries of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka. In the context of this study, the South Asian diaspora refers to anyone who identifies as having heritage from any of these countries. 

Q: Is this study just for South Asians living in the United States?

A: This is a global study! You can live anywhere -- all South Asians over the age of 18 are eligible. 

Q: Does the content have to be in English?

A: No! We will accept content in any language. 

Q: What kind of information are you collecting?

A: We are collecting any types of misinformation about COVID-19 -- the virus, disease, treatment, or vaccine -- that is being passed around on WhatsApp. 

Q: Can you provide fact-checking to resources I send in?

A: Although we do not have the capacity to fact check, we can direct you to some trustworthy resources. Check out our Resources tab for more reliable and accurate information about COVID-19.

Q: Will you keep my information?

A: No. All messages will be deidentified before being analyzed, so none of your personal information such as your name or phone number will be saved. 

Q: I have a question about the study. How do I get in touch?

A: You can email us at [email protected], or contact us via WhatsApp at +1-415-409-9085. We look forward to hearing from you!