Sextortion Scams Surge as Meta Takes Action Against Nigerian Criminals

Sextortion scams are increasingly targeting adult men in the U.S., with a significant number of these schemes originating from Nigeria, according to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. On Wednesday, Meta announced the removal of approximately 63,000 accounts linked to these scams, which involve criminals impersonating attractive women to solicit nude photos from victims. Once the photos are received, the scammers threaten to release them unless a ransom is paid. In its efforts to combat this growing issue, Meta has also taken down 200 Facebook pages and 5,700 groups that provided guidance on executing sextortion scams. These groups shared scripts and strategies for engaging potential victims. To further protect users, Meta is testing new technology, including an auto-blur feature in Instagram direct messages that obscures images containing nudity, aiming to prevent victims from falling prey to these scams. Antigone Davis, Meta's global head of safety, emphasized the severity of financial sextortion, describing it as a "horrific crime" with potentially devastating effects. A recent study by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and Thorn highlighted Instagram and Snapchat as the primary platforms for these scams. Meta noted that scammers often employ indiscriminate tactics, sending messages to numerous individuals in hopes of eliciting a response. Davis cautioned users to be vigilant, particularly if approached by unfamiliar accounts, and advised that any suspicion should prompt caution. The involvement of the "Yahoo Boys," a network of Nigerian scammers, underscores the organized nature of these criminal activities.