Meta has announced the implementation of new anti-scam tools across WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger. These features are designed to alert users to suspicious activities and protect them from fraudulent behaviour before they engage with potentially harmful content.
WhatsApp will now issue warnings when behavioural signals indicate a suspicious device linking request. The company noted that scammers often attempt to trick users into linking their accounts to unauthorised devices or scanning malicious QR codes. The new alerts will display the geographic origin of the request along with a clear warning, allowing users to pause and review the situation before approving any connection.
On Facebook, Meta is testing new warnings for suspicious friend requests. The company noted that these alerts will appear when a request involves an account showing unusual activity, such as having very few mutual friends or indicating a different country location. The feature is intended to help users make more informed decisions about whether to block or reject such requests.
Meta is also expanding advanced scam detection on Messenger. The company noted that if a conversation shows patterns linked to common frauds, users will receive an immediate warning. Individuals will then have the option to submit the messages for artificial intelligence review. If the system identifies the interaction as a potential scam, it will guide users through the steps required to block or report the suspicious account.
Alongside these product updates, Meta said it continues to strengthen broader enforcement efforts against fraudulent activity. The company noted that it removed more than 159 million scam advertisements globally last year, with 92 percent taken down proactively before receiving user reports.
During 2025, Meta added that it banned over 12.1 million advertising pieces in India that violated policies related to fraud, scams, and deceptive practices, achieving a proactive removal rate of more than 93%. Recognising that tackling fraud requires more than technological enforcement, Meta said it is also focusing on awareness and education for vulnerable populations.
Earlier this year, the company launched the third edition of its anti scam campaign “Scam Se Bacho” in partnership with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre and the Securities and Exchange Board of India. The year-long initiative features Neena Gupta along with several digital creators, aiming to help the public recognise and avoid online scams.
