Reference: http://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/node/16192
Question: In this present time of ours, and in particular [I wish to ask about the issue related to] mobile phone messages (SMS, WhatsApp etc.) which we receive quoting ahaadeeth, and at the end it states: ‘Forward this message, and you will be rewarded in like or more [plentifully]’. So what is your opinion regarding forwarding some of these ahaadeeth, particularly since we do not know their authenticity?
Response: It is not permissible for you to forward these [messages]. The people of knowledge should be asked about [the authenticity of] these ahaadeeth, and you mustn’t take these ahaadeeth from [the messages you receive on] the mobile phones or from those who insist you forward them [to others], promising you will be rewarded. We do not know the [real] intent of these people [who insist this of you]; it is quite possible the[se ahaadeeth] have lies added [to them], and the harm [emanating from propagating any falsehood] is feared.