Meta has banned 6.8 million WhatsApp accounts connected to criminal scam operations across Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye, according to Mr. Kojo Boakye, the company’s Vice President of Public Policy for the regions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Boakye said the accounts were disabled between January and June 2025 as part of Meta’s broader strategy to safeguard users and disrupt cybercrime networks.
“The fight against scams is relentless, and we are continually evolving our defences to stay ahead of bad actors,” Boakye said.
He explained that most of the banned accounts were shut down before fraudsters could execute their full plans, thereby protecting millions of users from potential harm.
Boakye revealed that many of the scams begin on dating websites or through random text messages, before transitioning to WhatsApp and then directing unsuspecting victims to cryptocurrency platforms or fake job offers.
He cited a recent example of a syndicate operating from Cambodia, where criminals used artificial intelligence, including tools like ChatGPT, to craft sophisticated scam messages. These messages were distributed via WhatsApp and later redirected victims to Telegram.
“Once on Telegram, victims were tricked into liking TikTok videos and pressured to deposit money into fake crypto investment accounts,” he said.
Boakye noted that the syndicate was eventually dismantled through collaborative efforts involving Meta, WhatsApp, and OpenAI.
To enhance user safety, Boakye also announced new in-app security features.
One update now alerts users when they are added to a WhatsApp group by someone not in their contacts. Such messages are muted by default, and users can choose whether to stay or leave the group.
In addition, WhatsApp is testing new warnings for messages received from unknown numbers. These alerts will offer context to help users make safer choices.
“We believe a safer messaging space is built on strong technology, proactive detection, and user education,” Boakye added.
He advised users to stay vigilant and avoid responding to suspicious messages, especially those requesting money, personal information, or PINs.
Boakye reaffirmed Meta’s commitment to working with governments and industry stakeholders to combat fraud and enhance digital safety for users worldwide.
