Millions of WhatsApp Accounts Removed
Meta has confirmed that WhatsApp scam accounts deleted recently totaled over 6.8 million. These accounts were linked to fraud operations worldwide.
The takedown occurred in the first half of the year as WhatsApp fought back against rising scam threats.
Many of these accounts were traced to scam networks in South East Asia. Criminal groups reportedly used forced labor to carry out these schemes.
The scam networks often hijacked WhatsApp profiles or added users to group chats promoting fake investment or crypto offers.
How Scammers Target Victims
Meta said WhatsApp acted quickly to shut down accounts before they could launch attacks.
In one case, Meta and OpenAI worked together to stop a Cambodian group promoting a pyramid scam disguised as a scooter rental business.
Scammers even used ChatGPT to create messages and instructions sent to their victims.
Fraud typically starts with a random text. Victims are then lured into conversations on social or private messaging apps.
Final payments or “investments” usually take place on cryptocurrency platforms, where the money disappears.
Authorities warn that any offer requiring upfront payment is a serious red flag.
Protecting Your WhatsApp Account
Governments, especially in Asia, have urged citizens to use safety tools like two-step verification on WhatsApp. This can prevent accounts from being hijack.
WhatsApp scam accounts deleted in this sweep highlight Meta’s efforts to reduce risks and protect global users from sophisticated fraud networks.
Singapore police also warned users to ignore suspicious requests on apps, especially if they involve money or investments.
