Web Desk: Meta on Tuesday introduced some new scam detection features for Whatsapp and Messenger in order to protect aged adults from online fraud.
These updates include screen sharing warnings, automated scam detection alerts, designed in such a way to prevent elderly people from online scam.
WhatsApp users will now see a warning prompt when attempting to share their screen with unknown contacts during video calls. According to Meta, this precaution targets a common scam tactic where fraudsters trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as banking details or verification codes. The new alert is designed to prevent users from accidentally disclosing personal data.
Meanwhile, on Messenger Meta is testing AI-powered scam detection tools that scan incoming messages for potential signs of fraud. If a suspicious message is flagged, users will receive a cautionary alert stating: “Be cautious, you could be at risk of losing money.” The warning also outlines common scam tactics such as fake job offers and “easy money” schemes and advises users to block or report suspicious accounts.
Meta has disrupted around 8 million accounts during the first half of 2025, all of these engaged in fraudulent activities, most were being operated from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, UAE and Philippines. Moreover, a total of 21000 Facebook pages were also removed attempting to extract personal Information.
Some Common Scams faced by WhatsApp and Facebook
Screen‑sharing scams
On WhatsApp, scammers may request to share your screen during a video call (often posing as tech support or your bank). Once you share, they can view private info—bank credentials, verification codes, etc.
Fake work‑from‑home, easy‑cash or investment offers
On Messenger or in chats, you might receive messages promising high returns, flexible jobs from home, or easy money. These often lead to upfront payments, gift cards, or sharing banking details.
Impersonation or “friend in trouble” messages
A scammer pretends to be a relative, friend, or official and asks for urgent help—often money—to avoid embarrassment, trouble or arrest. Older adults are especially vulnerable due to trust or rapid escalation of fear.
Fake customer service/tech support scams
Scammers create fake profiles or pages claiming to be customer support for banks, travel agencies or software companies. Once contact is made, they ask for verification codes, login info or try to get you to install malicious software.
Romance or emotional‑grooming scams
By befriending someone online (often via WhatsApp or Messenger), scammers build trust and later ask for money, gifts or credential access under the guise of love, emergency or life‑crisis. Older adults with limited social interaction may be more at risk.
