NEW DELHI: WhatsApp has taken action against a wave of digital fraud by banning more than 6.8 million accounts linked to global scam operations and launching a suite of features to enhance user safety. The move comes amid growing concern over cybercrime networks using forced labour and AI-generated scripts to defraud victims through social media and cryptocurrency schemes.
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Fraud Networks Exploit AI and Social Media to Lure Victims
Criminal syndicates, largely based in Southeast Asia, are believed to be behind the surge in scams. These groups deploy complex strategies across platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, dating apps, and crypto exchanges. WhatsApp disclosed that the first half of this year saw the removal of millions of accounts that were flagged or proactively identified for fraudulent activity.
A recent investigation revealed that scammers used ChatGPT to write convincing introductory messages. Victims were lured into fraudulent schemes through WhatsApp and were assigned fake tasks on platforms like TikTok, before being pressured into transferring funds through cryptocurrency apps.
One international scam ring operating out of Cambodia was dismantled with the help of WhatsApp, Meta, and OpenAI. Fraudsters had set up fake job offers involving social media engagement and “rent-a-scooter” promotions, which served as a front for collecting crypto deposits from victims.
WhatsApp Rolls Out ‘Safety Overview’ and New Anti-Scam Features
In response to the evolving threat, WhatsApp has introduced new tools designed to alert users before they fall into a scam trap. One such feature, the Safety Overview, appears when users are added to unfamiliar groups by unknown contacts. It provides group information, safety tips, and an option to leave the group without engaging.
Additionally, WhatsApp is testing private messaging alerts that flag unknown numbers and provide safety suggestions to users before they respond.
WhatsApp is urging users to adopt a three-step approach to stay safe: pause before replying to unfamiliar contacts, question unrealistic offers, and verify any information using independent channels.
These developments mark a shift in how tech platforms are responding to organised scam centres that are evolving with AI, digital currency, and cross-platform tactics to exploit user vulnerabilities.