Meta deletes over 2 million scam accounts

Meta has deleted over 2 million Facebook accounts linked to scam centers operating in several countries, including the Philippines, Cambodia, Myanmar, and the United Arab Emirates.

The revelation came from Dr. Rafael Frankel, Meta’s Director for Public Policy in Southeast Asia, during a House Tri-Committee hearing focused on disinformation and fake news.

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According to Frankel, the accounts were found to be part of large-scale scam operations tied to transnational criminal activities.

Rob Abrams, Meta’s Head of Law Enforcement Outreach for Asia-Pacific, said the Philippines is among the most active countries in combating online scams and forced criminality. He noted that Meta has intensified its security and policy enforcement efforts in response to the growing threat.

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The company said the removal of these accounts marks a significant step in addressing fraudulent schemes and preventing the spread of disinformation through its platform.

The House hearing is part of ongoing efforts by Philippine lawmakers to investigate and regulate digital platforms amid rising concerns over misinformation and criminal exploitation online.