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WhatsApp deletes millions of scam accounts
Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, has confirmed that it removed 6.8 million scam-linked WhatsApp accounts in the first half of 2025. This unprecedented move comes as part of a wider initiative to curb online scams and account hijacking. Meta is especially targeting those originating from organised scam centres across Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Cambodia, and Thailand.
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According to Meta, many of the accounts were linked to criminal networks exploiting forced labour to execute fraudulent campaigns globally.
Scammers Use AI and Social Engineering
One alarming case involved scammers using ChatGPT to generate scripted messages for victims in a fake rent-a-scooter investment scheme, traced to a Cambodian crime syndicate. The fraudsters lured users by offering cash rewards for social media engagement, then moved conversations to private messaging apps where victims were prompted to invest.
Meta revealed that these scams often start with text messages and progress to messaging apps like WhatsApp, where criminals add users to fraudulent group chats or hijack accounts to promote fake investment opportunities.
New Anti-Scam Features on WhatsApp
In response to rising threats, WhatsApp has introduced anti-fraud safety features, including:
- Alerts when added to a group chat by an unknown contact
- Enhanced detection tools that proactively shut down suspicious accounts
- Encouragement to enable two-step verification for all users
Meta emphasized that many takedowns occurred before scammers could fully activate the accounts, underscoring their commitment to proactive fraud prevention.
WhatsApp Scams Rising in Africa
Scam tactics are also escalating across Nigeria and the rest of Africa, where cybercriminals are known to use advance fee fraud and social engineering tricks to steal verification codes or push fake job offers, lottery wins, and money requests.
Authorities in regions like Singapore and Nigeria have issued alerts, urging users to beware of suspicious messages and unusual activity on their WhatsApp accounts.
How to Stay Safe from WhatsApp Scams
To protect yourself:
- Enable Two-Step Verification in your WhatsApp settings
- Never share verification codes or click on links from unknown contacts
- Report suspicious accounts or messages directly to WhatsApp
- Stay informed about emerging scam tactics on social platforms
WhatsApp fraud becoming more sophisticated
As WhatsApp fraud becomes more sophisticated, platforms like Meta are investing heavily in AI-powered security and user education. By staying vigilant and using available security features, users can better protect their digital presence in an increasingly connected world.
