Social media not only leads to efficient dissemination of information but also facilitates the
spread of rumors. However, it remains unknown whether and how WeChat use influences
rumor transmission. Using a nationwide sample of Chinese adults (N= 9,368), we applied a
moderated mediation model to examine whether the relationship among WeChat use, rumor
anxiety, and rumor transmission intention varies with age. Our findings show that frequent
use of WeChat decreased young adults' intention to transmit rumors by alleviating rumor …