In the first half of 2025, WhatsApp has permanently deactivated over 6.8 million accounts associated with international fraud operations, with particular emphasis on Southeast Asian networks. Meta's official statement highlighted the escalating threat posed by organized cybercrime enterprises, many of which operate from regional scam centers.
On Tuesday, Meta confirmed this mass deactivation effort, explaining these accounts were removed proactively before fraud centers could begin operations. The company noted that numerous centers are managed by organized criminal networks utilizing forced labor practices.
These criminal groups employ a range of deceptive tactics including fake investment schemes, cryptocurrency frauds, and social media manipulation campaigns.
Meta's research indicates perpetrators typically initiate contact through SMS or dating apps before migrating conversations to platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and TikTok. This multi-platform strategy complicates tracking of complete fraud operations by any single service provider.
During a coordinated operation, WhatsApp, Meta, and OpenAI dismantled a scam network linked to Cambodian criminal organizations. According to Meta's analysis, fraudsters used ChatGPT to craft initial messages offering users fictitious earnings opportunities such as liking TikTok videos. The company reports victims ultimately transferred funds to cryptocurrency wallets under false pretenses of quick profits.
New WhatsApp Security Measures
To enhance user protection, WhatsApp is introducing anti-fraud tools including a group safety screen that appears when users are added to groups by non-contacts. This allows users to assess context before opening conversations.
The platform will also automatically mute group notifications until users decide to remain in the group.
A pending feature aims to improve one-on-one message security. WhatsApp is testing warning alerts for messages from unknown numbers, providing contextual information to help users evaluate potential risks.
Meta's Anti-Fraud Guidelines
As Meta continues its global campaign against fraud networks, the company urges users to implement basic protective measures.
Key recommendations emphasize vigilance: "Pause, question and verify suspicious or unusual messages before responding, particularly those from unknown numbers promising quick financial gains," advises Meta's security team.
