Meta Platforms has recently taken steps to clamp down on sextortion scams, removing 63,000 Instagram accounts tied to Nigerian cybercriminals known as the “Yahoo Boys”. This group engaged in schemes where they extorted money by threatening to release intimate photos of their victims.
Sextortion is a criminal act where criminals manipulate victims into sharing explicit images online. The process typically begins on websites, apps, or messaging platforms. Initially, the criminal may threaten the victim, claiming to possess compromising pictures or videos. Alternatively, they might pose as someone the victim’s age, feigning interest in a relationship or offering something valuable. Once they have obtained one or more images or videos, the criminals escalate their threats, coercing the victim into providing additional content.
Operation Details Unveiled
An investigation revealed 20 cybercriminals operated 2,500 fake accounts to extort primarily adult men in the United States. These fraudulent accounts tricked victims into providing intimate photos, then attempted to extort money by threatening to disclose the photos. Though many of their attempts failed, the extent of the operation necessitated Meta’s intervention.
Meta expanded its campaign by eradicating numerous Facebook accounts, pages, and groups that supported scammers with various resources, including fake photos and scripts to execute sextortion schemes. This action aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to ensure user safety by eradicating harmful activities and profiles.
Technological Enhancements
The company’s enhanced technical capabilities played a crucial role in spotting and eliminating these sextortion networks. New detection methods helped Meta find and dismantle the network of 2,500 accounts involved, leading to more discoveries of related scammers in Nigeria.
To bolster user protection, Meta has introduced new features designed to prevent sextortion. Messages from suspected scammers are directed to the hidden requests folder. When users interact with potential scammers, a safety warning encourages them to report threats involving private images. Moreover, suspected accounts are restricted from accessing the “Message” button on teenagers’ profiles, irrespective of their connection status.
Meta is also working on raising awareness among users regarding sextortion risks. Earlier this year, the company trialed a feature that identifies and flags images containing nudity, urging users to reconsider sending such images through direct messages. Users are also given the option to unsend images and are alerted with a warning if recipients try to forward the image.
Support for Victims
Meta encourages users to report any suspect behavior and provides various resources for those affected by sextortion scams. The company offers guidelines and support through its platforms, and affected users can access Meta’s customer support for help.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:30 pm CET
