Meta introduces new safety features! How to protect yourself from online fraud and cyber scams on WhatsApp and Facebook..

These days, we all use the internet and social media extensively. Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram have become a part of our daily lives. However, as the digital world expands, so too are cases of online fraud. The most common victims of these scams are senior citizens, who lack complete knowledge of the digital world. As part of its efforts to keep people worldwide safe online, Meta has launched several new anti-scam features and awareness programs. This aims to protect people, especially the elderly, from cyber fraud and online scams. Let's learn about the new tools Meta has introduced and how you can use them.

New Anti-Scam Tools: What's Changed?

Meta has taken several important steps to strengthen security on its three largest platforms—WhatsApp, Messenger, and Facebook:

1. Screen Sharing Warning on WhatsApp

Fraudsters often force people to share their screens during video calls so they can steal confidential information like bank details or verification codes.

New Feature: WhatsApp will immediately alert you if you try to share your screen while on a video call with an unknown person.

Benefit: This will help you identify and avoid scams, preventing your sensitive information from being leaked.

2. AI-Based Scam Detection in Messenger
New Feature: Messenger is now testing scam detection systems with advanced AI.

How it works: You'll receive an immediate alert if someone new sends you a fraudulent message. This system will provide you with more information about common scams and give you the option to block or report the account.

3. Secure Login with Passkeys
Remembering passwords is a hassle and can also be stolen.

New Feature: You can now set up 'Passkeys' on Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp.

Benefit: This works like your fingerprint, face ID, or phone PIN. You can now securely login using the same method you already use on your mobile device. This reduces the need for passwords and makes logins more secure.

4. Security and Privacy Checkup
On Facebook and Instagram: You can now review your security settings using 'Security Checkup' and get suggestions on security steps like updating passwords.

On WhatsApp: 'Privacy Checkup' gives you information about important privacy settings, such as who can add you to groups, so you can choose the right level of security.

Input: The two most important things for security (My Added Input)

New features aren't enough. There are also some basic things you need to follow for online security.

1. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Make sure to turn on Two-Factor Authentication on all your accounts (Facebook, WhatsApp, email). This will prevent someone from logging in, even if they know your password, as they will need a code sent to your phone. This is the strongest security shield.

2. Identify Popular Scams

Imposter Scams: Scammers pose as relatives or friends and ask for money in an emergency. Always cross-check.

Job or investment lure: Messages or calls promising huge returns or jobs abroad are always fraudulent.

Partnership and Action: Cracking Down on Scammers
Fraudsters often don't stick to one platform, so working together to combat them is crucial.

Collaboration with DoT: Meta, in collaboration with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of the Government of India, has launched a special campaign called "Scams Se Bachao." This campaign features multilingual video content specifically designed for seniors to help them identify, avoid, and report online scams.

Saksham Senior Initiative: Meta is also supporting initiatives like "Saksham Senior." This initiative provides simple language learning resources to senior citizens in India to navigate the digital world with confidence.

Crackdown on Scam Centers Around the World
Meta's expert teams are working to identify and dismantle cross-border criminal networks operating scam centers around the world. In the first half of 2025 alone, Meta has detected and shut down nearly 8 million accounts linked to scam centers in countries like Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines. Additionally, action has been taken against over 21,000 pages and accounts posing as customer support to defraud people.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Zee Business. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content