Meta Enhances Messenger and WhatsApp With New Anti-Scam Protections

Fresh safeguards aim to prevent fraud and empower users to recognize social engineering tactics.

AI-driven scam detection reaches Messenger

Meta is stepping up its fight against online fraud with new protection layers for Messenger and WhatsApp. The company has begun testing an upgraded scam-detection system on Messenger that automatically flags suspicious messages from unfamiliar contacts. When triggered, the system warns users of potential risks and offers the option to submit recent messages for AI analysis.

If the algorithm identifies signs of foul play, such as impersonation, fake investment pitches or urgent financial requests, the user receives an on-screen alert with guidance on next steps, including blocking or reporting the account. Meta says the tool is enabled by default, ensuring proactive protection for every user. Those who prefer not to use it can disable it under “Privacy & Safety Settings.”

WhatsApp users gain new scam warnings

Over on WhatsApp, the company is introducing additional in-app reminders to help users think twice before revealing private information. A new alert now appears when a user begins screen-sharing with an unknown contact, emphasizing that scammers may use this tactic to extract bank or verification details. Meta hopes this real-time caution will help users pause before sharing sensitive visuals.

Earlier this year, WhatsApp also added “safety overview” context cards to group invitations from unknown numbers. These cards provide details such as the group’s creation date, membership count and helpful reminders on how to manage who can add you to new groups. Combined with notifications when unknown senders reach out, these changes form a clearer picture of who’s contacting you and why.

Cracking down on global scam operations

Meta’s internal enforcement teams continue to target organized scam networks. Since January, nearly eight million accounts tied to fraudulent operations across Southeast Asia and the Middle East have been taken down.

The company has also removed more than 21,000 pages and accounts that posed as customer service representatives to trick users into revealing sensitive data.

Strengthening your digital resolve

While Meta’s updates raise the bar for scam detection, personal vigilance remains vital. Users should remain skeptical of urgent money requests, unsolicited group invites or links from unknown sources. For an added layer of protection, Bitdefender Scamio can analyze suspicious messages, links, screenshots, QR codes or described scenarios and instantly tell you if they’re part of a scam attempt.

Meanwhile, Bitdefender Ultimate Security offers comprehensive protection with malware prevention, privacy safeguards and a built-in scam detection assistant, helping ensure that what reaches your inbox or chat window is safe before you even open it.

With Meta’s enhanced tools and trusted cybersecurity solutions, staying one step ahead of digital fraudsters has never been more achievable.