Meta Introduces New Features to Safeguard Messenger and WhatsApp Users Against Scammers

In a proactive move aimed at enhancing digital safety, Meta recently rolled out innovative tools to bolster user protection on Messenger and WhatsApp. Announced during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, these enhancements are a direct response to the increasing prevalence of scams plaguing messaging apps and social media platforms. The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the alarming statistics indicating that scammers are increasingly targeting vulnerable demographics, particularly older adults.

Beginning in 2025, Meta’s crackdown on fraudulent activities led to the disruption of nearly 8 million accounts associated with scam operations concentrated in regions such as Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, the UAE, and the Philippines. These rogue networks have leveraged dating applications, social media channels, and cryptocurrency markets to deceive unsuspecting victims. According to the FBI’s 2024 Internet Crime Report, financial losses attributed to fraud among Americans aged 60 and over reached a staggering $4.8 billion last year. Scammers often
manipulate their targets by establishing trust, ultimately leading to further victimization as they exploit contacts.

One of the standout features of Meta’s recent update is the enhanced detection capabilities. For WhatsApp users, a significant new warning system has been introduced to alert individuals when they share their screen during video calls with unknown contacts. This tactic is often employed by scammers to extract sensitive information such as bank details or verification codes, making this feature crucial for user protection.

In addition to WhatsApp’s updates, Messenger is also undergoing significant improvements. Advanced AI-driven scam detection is currently in the testing phase, which aims to highlight potentially fraudulent messages from previously unrecognized contacts. Not only does this feature assist in identifying scams, but it also empowers users by providing useful tips on how to block or report suspicious interactions. Furthermore, users will receive critical information about common scams and recommended actions should a scam be identified.

Moreover, Meta is making strides towards more secure login processes by promoting the use of passkeys across Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp. This feature allows for biometric logins through fingerprints, facial recognition, or PINs, thereby reducing reliance on passwords which are often vulnerable to attacks.

In addition to these technological upgrades, Security Checkup features are being fortified on Facebook and Instagram, providing reviews of security settings and suggesting necessary updates. WhatsApp is also launching its Privacy Checkup tool, which assists users in managing group invites and fine-tuning other privacy settings.

In light of these updates, Meta also highlighted ongoing trends in scams, which were uncovered in collaboration with Graphika researchers. Noteworthy among these is the prevalence of fake home remodeling or debt relief websites that lure seniors by promoting phony government benefits through advertising on major platforms like Facebook and Google. Furthermore, fraudulent “money recovery” services often impersonate legitimate organizations such as the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), while impostor customer support pages hijack brand interactions to push deceptive refund offers.

To enhance user safety, Meta strongly advises individuals to exercise caution with unsolicited messages. Users are urged to refrain from sharing personal or financial information and to verify any concerns through official channels. Families play a pivotal role in ensuring safety by discussing potential red flags, such as messaging that invokes a sense of urgency or secrecy. Additionally, resources such as AARP’s Fraud Watch Network or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provide valuable avenues for reporting scams.

In a collaborative effort to combat elder fraud, Meta is joining forces with the National Elder Fraud Coordination Center alongside notable partners like AARP, Amazon, and Google. This coalition aims to tackle elder fraud by sharing intelligence and conducting joint investigations. As part of the Tech Against Scams Coalition, Meta has actively participated in dismantling scam-related Facebook Groups, in partnership with Match Group. Moreover, in global outreach initiatives, there have been training programs aimed at enhancing digital literacy for seniors in Thailand, along with awareness campaigns in Europe and India featuring local creators.

These formidable actions by Meta illustrate a commitment to evolving defenses against the rising tide of scams, with continuous updates designed to keep users one step ahead of malicious actors. Through innovation and collaboration, Meta is actively working towards a safer digital environment for all users across its platforms.

Follow us on Google News, LinkedIn, and X for daily cybersecurity updates. Contact us to feature your stories.