Meta Bolsters Security Across Platforms with New Anti-Scam Tools
Meta is rolling out a suite of new anti-scam tools across WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger, aiming to protect users from increasingly sophisticated online fraud. The updates include enhanced warnings for suspicious device linking requests on WhatsApp and alerts for potentially fraudulent friend requests on Facebook, alongside broader efforts to combat malicious advertising and account takeovers.
WhatsApp Device Linking Warnings
Scammers frequently attempt to hijack WhatsApp accounts by tricking users into sharing device linking codes or scanning malicious QR codes. This allows attackers to gain access to messages, read chats, and even impersonate the victim. Recent attacks have prompted Meta to implement new warnings within WhatsApp.
Now, WhatsApp will alert users when behavioral signals suggest a device-linking request may be fraudulent. These alerts will provide information about the request’s origin and warn users about potential scams, giving them the opportunity to reconsider before proceeding. WhatsApp provides resources in its Help Center for staying safe when linking devices.
Facebook Alerts for Suspicious Friend Requests
Facebook is testing new warnings to help users navigate suspicious account requests. Users will receive alerts when sending or receiving requests from accounts exhibiting red flags, such as limited mutual friends, a different country location in their profile, or recent registration. These alerts aim to help users make informed decisions about blocking or rejecting potentially fraudulent connections.
Expanding Scam Detection and Advertiser Verification
Beyond WhatsApp and Facebook, Messenger is also expanding its scam detection features to more countries. The system identifies common fraud patterns, such as suspicious job offers from new contacts, and alerts users before they can be deceived. Meta is also strengthening advertiser verification, particularly in high-risk categories.
The company aims to have verified advertisers generate 90% of advertising revenue by the end of the year, up from 70% currently. This increased scrutiny is part of a broader effort to remove fraudulent ads and accounts. In 2025, Meta removed over 159 million scam ads and blocked 10.9 million Facebook and Instagram accounts linked to organized scam hubs. Meta is also deploying AI technology to proactively identify and remove malicious accounts.
Combating Evolving Threats
Meta acknowledges that scammers are constantly evolving their tactics. The company is responding with ongoing investments in advanced AI, user-facing tools, and partnerships with law enforcement and industry peers to combat fraud both on and off its platforms.