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.

#meta #WhatsApp #LinkedInScam #Aİ #scam