WhatsApp Deletes 6.8 Million Scam Accounts in Global Crackdown
WhatsApp has removed 6.8 million scam accounts in just six months, a move parent company Meta describes as a significant strike against global fraud networks. The mass takedown targeted accounts linked to organised crime syndicates in Southeast Asia, notorious for running scam centres using forced labour to prey on victims worldwide.
Meta says victims of these operations have been tricked into losing billions of dollars through elaborate scams, including fake investment opportunities, bogus job offers, and fraudulent online promotions. The company’s announcement coincides with the launch of new anti-scam features aimed at preventing fraud before it starts.
New Safeguards for Users
One of the latest updates to WhatsApp includes an alert system that warns users when they are added to a group chat by someone who is not in their contacts. Meta says the goal is to prevent scammers from “operationalising” their schemes by cutting off their access to potential targets early.
Criminal tactics often involve hijacking legitimate accounts or adding unsuspecting people to investment-themed group chats. In some cases, the conversations are crafted to build trust before introducing a fraudulent opportunity.
A notable recent case saw WhatsApp, Meta, and ChatGPT developer OpenAI join forces to disrupt a Cambodian-based group running a rent-a-scooter pyramid scheme. According to Meta, the scammers allegedly used ChatGPT to write convincing messages, generate step-by-step instructions for victims, and even offer cash rewards for social media “likes” to create an illusion of legitimacy.
How the Scams Work
Meta’s security team says these schemes typically start with unsolicited text messages. Once the scammer gains the victim’s interest, they often move the conversation to private messaging apps or social media platforms. The scam usually ends on payment or cryptocurrency platforms, where victims are pressured into making upfront payments for supposedly “guaranteed” high returns.
“There is always a catch, and it should be a red flag for everyone,” Meta warned in its announcement.
Global Response and Consumer Concerns
Consumer rights groups have welcomed the crackdown but say more needs to be done. In the UK, watchdog organisation Which? praised Meta’s efforts but noted that users across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp remain “inundated” with fraudulent ads and offers.
Consumer law expert Lisa Webb called on Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, to enforce stricter measures under the Online Safety Act, holding tech companies accountable for the content they host.
Law enforcement agencies in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Thailand have also sounded the alarm over scam centres, which often lure workers with fake job advertisements before trapping them in abusive and exploitative working conditions.
In Singapore, police have issued fresh warnings to residents to be cautious of any unexpected requests via messaging apps, stressing that scammers continue to refine their tactics.
Meta’s Commitment to Fighting Fraud
Meta says the removal of 6.8 million accounts is part of a broader and ongoing effort to protect users. The company stressed that it is prepared to deactivate millions more accounts as needed, and urged all WhatsApp users to enable two-step verification for added security.
The company also reminded users to be suspicious of unsolicited offers, particularly those promising unusually high returns or requesting personal information upfront.
While the crackdown is a significant step, Meta acknowledges that the fight against online fraud is far from over. Criminal networks are continually adapting, and tech companies, regulators, and law enforcement agencies must remain one step ahead to safeguard the public.
