Meta Cracks Down on 6.8M WhatsApp Accounts Linked to Crypto Scams
Key Takeaways
6.8M WhatsApp accounts tied to "pig butchering" scams removed in 2025
Scams primarily operated by Southeast Asian crime syndicates
New safety features introduced: Group chat alerts for unknown contacts
Critics argue platforms profit from scam ads, lack incentive for real action
The Pig Butchering Scam Epidemic
🐖 How It Works:
Unsolicited message → builds trust
Shifts to private chats
Pushes fake crypto investments
Disappears with victims' funds
🌏 Hotspots: Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand
💸 2024 Losses: $3.9B+ in crypto scams (FBI data)
Meta’s Response
🛡️ New Protections:
Alerts when added to groups by strangers
AI collaboration (e.g., busted a ChatGPT-powered scooter scam)
⚠ Criticism:
Platforms earn ad revenue from scam promotions
Slow removal of deepfake ads (e.g., Elon Musk, King Charles III impersonations)
Why This Matters
📉 Elderly most vulnerable: Major targets for crypto fraud
🔍 Systemic issue: Social media remains scam gateway despite takedowns
💡 User tips:
Enable two-step verification
Reject unexpected investment offers
Bottom Line: While Meta’s actions help, the ad-driven business model conflicts with scam prevention. Users must stay vigilant.