On 5 August 2025, Meta confirmed that WhatsApp had deleted 6.8 million accounts linked to global scams. Meta reported that fraud networks operating from Southeast Asia’s scam centres controlled the accounts and used forced labour in these scams, particularly in Cambodia and Myanmar.
Meta removed most accounts before scammers could launch full-scale fraud campaigns. It increasingly uses proactive detection technologies to identify and eliminate scam accounts, often before users report them.
Clair Deevy, WhatsApp’s Director of External Affairs, affirmed the company’s commitment to user safety and highlighted its investments in technology and partnerships to combat scams. Meta described the takedown of 6.8 million WhatsApp accounts as one of its largest anti-scam enforcement actions in 2025.
Meta stated the campaign disrupted several networks before scams reached vulnerable users.
SCAM TACTICS TARGETED BY WHATSAPP
Scammers often hijack verified accounts to create fake investment or trading groups. These scams typically start with casual messages and shift into private group chats. Scammers commonly exploit financial stress through pyramid schemes and fake crypto investments. Furthermore, Meta said scammers often request upfront fees for false investment returns or rewards.
One group in Cambodia used ChatGPT to write step-by-step scam instructions for victims. Meta has employed advanced AI technologies, including those developed with input from AI research organisations, to help detect and dismantle pyramid schemes, such as fraudulent rent-a-scooter investment scams in Southeast Asia.
Users were duped into “investing” in digital scooters for fake passive income returns. Before investors received any earnings, the scammers disappeared with the money. Law enforcement also recommended that users always enable WhatsApp’s two-step verification. Meta emphasised the importance of users regularly updating account security features.
NEW SAFETY FEATURES ROLLED OUT
WhatsApp introduced new privacy features that block scam-related group invitations and alert users before unknown or non-contact numbers add them to groups. Messages from unfamiliar groups remain muted until users choose to interact directly. WhatsApp is testing warning prompts when users message unfamiliar or unsaved contacts, providing safety context before interaction.
The app now shows sender context to help users judge message safety more easily. Meta said the new safety tools empower users to make informed communication decisions. These features help reduce users’ exposure to scams across the entire platform.
WhatsApp’s updates aim to protect its global users from scams. The company said it will continue improving safety measures as scam tactics evolve and encourages users to promptly report suspicious messages using the in-app tools.
SOUTH AFRICA AMONG MOST AFFECTED REGIONS
According to Meltwater, WhatsApp reaches 93.9% of South Africa’s online population. Authorities have recently uncovered scams that impersonate Old Mutual.
South African police have urged citizens to report scam messages without hesitation. Furthermore, Meta said scammers often focus on regions where WhatsApp usage is high and growing. Fraud syndicates use local languages and themes to increase message credibility and success.
Meta is actively monitoring fraud centres that target Africa’s fast-growing digital markets. The company said it is investing in local partnerships to strengthen community awareness. As a result, authorities warned users to remain vigilant and avoid unsolicited investment opportunities.
SHOULD WHATSAPP ENFORCE STRICTER IDENTITY VERIFICATION?
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