Twitter has announced it will trial new features which allow users to report “misleading” posts on the platform.

The move marks the first time the social media firm has introduced a function to report misinformation, and comes in the wake of heavy criticism over its policing of content.

In a statement on the site, Twitter’s safety account confirmed tests, which the company said could shape its future response to misinformation and fake news.

“We’re assessing if this is an effective approach so we’re starting small,” the firm said.

“We may not take action on and cannot respond to each report in this experiment,” Twitter added. “But your input will help us identify trends so that we can improve the speed and scale of our broader misinformation work.”

Initially, only a limited number of users in the United States, South Korea and Australia will be able to use the new feature. However, if successful, the function could be rolled out globally.

Traditionally, Twitter has offered users the ability to report posts based on a range of variables. Posts that are harmful, abusive or encourage self-harm are included in the list of reasons for reporting content.

However, until now there has been no dedicated option for reporting misinformation, despite repeated calls for this function.

In its post, Twitter explained that users involved in the trials will now be offered a new option – “It’s misleading” – after clicking on Report Tweet.

We’re testing a feature for you to report Tweets that seem misleading – as you see them. Starting today, some people in the US, South Korea, and Australia will find the option to flag a Tweet as “It’s misleading” after clicking on Report Tweet.

— Twitter Safety (@TwitterSafety) August 17, 2021

In recent years, Twitter has been subject to intense scrutiny over its ability to police content on the site.

This scrutiny has intensified since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, with the social media firm struggling to keep a lid on the flow of misleading information.

As the crisis escalated in March last year, the firm broadened its definition of harmful content to address posts which contradicted guidance from “authoritative sources of global and local public health information”.

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Twitter’s handling of political discourse has also landed it in hot water with parties the length and breadth of the ideological spectrum.

Conservative commentators in the UK and United States have criticised Twitter – among other platforms – of “bias” amid a crackdown on misleading political content.

Conversely, critics have repeatedly argued that the firm hasn’t done enough to tackle fake news, misinformation and extremist content.

Twitter was criticised by both sides of the political divide over its decision to label tweets from former US president, Donald Trump. Later, in the wake of the Capitol riot in January this year, the firm banned Trump from the platform, sparking yet more controversy.

Earlier this month, the firm also announced a partnership with Reuters and Associated Press aimed at tackling misinformation and providing users with factual sources.