Meta has recently removed tens of thousands of Instagram accounts from Nigeria. The move represents one of the largest-ever coups against sextortion scams. While the accounts were mostly targeting adult men living in the US, some also involved minors, according to Meta.
The crackdown forms part of a broader strategy by Meta in fighting sextortion. It introduced a safety feature in Instagram messages earlier this year for automatic detection of nudity with features warning users about possible blackmail scams. In addition, it also provides in-app resources and safety tips for users.
According to the just-released data, Meta took down 2,500 accounts belonging to a group of about 20 people behind the execution of sextortion scams. On top of that, Meta took down some accounts and groups on Facebook. The said accounts issued tips and advice—along with scripts and fake images—for extortionists.
In addition, the takedowns included accounts affiliated with the Yahoo Boys. This is a loose term for cybercriminals mostly working from Nigeria, but known for engaging in all sorts of scams, including sextortion. The action Meta took on the accounts shows its commitment to fighting cybercrime.
Despite such efforts, Meta has faced criticism over how it handles issues like this. At a recent Senate hearing, Senator Lindsey Graham had questions for Mark Zuckerberg over whether the company should be liable for lawsuits from parents of victims.
Although most of the targets were adults, Meta has confirmed that some of the victims were children. These cases are reported to NCMEC. Using AI in identifying and removing harmful accounts is, according to Meta, a critical step toward enhanced online safety.
