Meta is rolling out new tools to detect scams on its messaging and social media platforms, which include WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger.
For WhatsApp users, Meta is introducing alerts concerning device-linking requests. These requests allow users to link their accounts to other devices. The company warned that scammers might try to deceive users into sharing linking codes or scanning QR codes, enabling them to connect their device to a victim’s account. With the new system, WhatsApp will notify users when suspicious behavioral signals are detected in a device-linking request, providing information on the request’s origin and cautioning about potential scams.
Meta stated in a recent blog post that the new features aim to notify users about potentially suspicious accounts or messages before interacting with them. Scammers often try to evade detection by initially using accounts in ways that may not immediately appear malicious.
On Facebook, Meta is testing alerts to warn users about suspicious friend requests. The system flags accounts with few mutual connections or profiles listing a location in a different country. When such activities are identified, users will be prompted to review the request before deciding whether to accept or block it.
Additionally, Meta announced the expansion of its advanced scam detection system on Messenger to more countries, with specifics on the markets included not disclosed. The system analyzes common scam-associated patterns like dubious job offers or financial requests from unfamiliar contacts. If suspicious activity is detected in a conversation with a new contact, Messenger will alert the user and provide the option to submit recent chat messages for review using artificial intelligence.
Meta reported that over 159 million scam-related ads were removed from its platforms in 2025, with about 92 percent taken down before user reports. The company also disclosed the removal of approximately 10.9 million accounts on Facebook and Instagram linked to organized criminal scam operations.