WhatsApp cracks down on 6.8 million scam accounts globally
- WhatsApp removed 6.8 million accounts associated with global scams, particularly linked to Southeast Asian crime organizations.
- The scams often manipulate victims into investing in fraudulent schemes through online interactions that build trust.
- Consumer rights groups demand stronger action from tech firms and regulators to prevent scams from appearing on their platforms.
WhatsApp has successfully identified and deleted 6.8 million accounts that were connected to scams across the globe. This action, announced by Meta on August 6, 2025, is part of a broader initiative to combat online fraud, particularly those targeted by organized crime networks operating mainly in Southeast Asia. These scams are often referred to as "pig butchering" scams, a term that highlights the manipulative tactics used by criminals to deceive victims. Schemers build trust over time by faking stories of fake earnings via online interactions, typically starting from a text message or social media chat and shifting communications to private messaging platforms and ultimately, payment or cryptocurrency channels. This coordinated effort reflects the ongoing challenges tech companies face in safeguarding users against these cunning scams. In response to the rising tide of fraudulent activities, Meta has emphasized that WhatsApp took these actions proactively, aiming to disrupt potential scam operations before they could fully materialize. Consumer protection advocates, such as the U.K. organization Which?, have called for stronger measures to prevent scams on not just WhatsApp but across all Meta platforms. They urge regulators like Ofcom to implement stringent rules under the Online Safety Act to ensure tech companies take comprehensive responsibility for the content shared on their networks. As part of its efforts to enhance user safety, Meta has also shared tips for identifying scams, encouraging users to pause, question, and verify the legitimacy of messages received. By addressing these issues, WhatsApp is making significant strides in protecting its users from fraudulent activities and working toward a safer online environment.