In a significant move to bolster online safety, Meta has introduced new features in its messaging platforms, WhatsApp and Messenger, aimed at protecting users, particularly older adults, from the increasing threat of online scams. This initiative is part of Meta’s broader strategy to combat digital fraud and enhance user security across its services.
WhatsApp’s New Screen-Sharing Alerts
WhatsApp users will now receive alerts when attempting to share their screens during video calls with contacts not saved in their address book. This measure is designed to prevent scammers from exploiting screen-sharing capabilities to access sensitive information, such as banking details or verification codes. By notifying users of the potential risks associated with screen sharing, Meta aims to reduce the likelihood of fraudulent activities during video interactions. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Advanced Scam Detection in Messenger
Messenger is testing an advanced scam detection system that utilizes artificial intelligence to identify potentially fraudulent messages from new contacts. When a suspicious message is detected, users are prompted to submit recent chat messages for AI analysis. If the system identifies a potential scam, it provides information on common scam tactics and suggests actions such as blocking or reporting the sender. This proactive approach aims to empower users to recognize and respond appropriately to potential threats. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Implementation of Passkeys for Secure Logins
To further enhance security, Meta has introduced Passkeys across Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp. This feature allows users to log in using biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, or a personal identification number (PIN). By reducing reliance on traditional passwords, Passkeys aim to provide a more secure and user-friendly authentication process. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Security and Privacy Checkups
Meta encourages users to utilize Security Checkup tools available on Facebook and Instagram, as well as Privacy Checkup on WhatsApp. These features guide users through essential security settings, offering recommendations such as updating passwords and managing privacy preferences. By regularly reviewing these settings, users can maintain a higher level of account security and control over their personal information. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Collaborative Efforts and Educational Campaigns
Recognizing the importance of education in preventing online scams, Meta has expanded its Scams Se Bacho campaign in collaboration with India’s Department of Telecommunications. This initiative produces multilingual video content aimed at helping older adults recognize and report online scams. Additionally, Meta supports the Saksham Senior program, which offers digital literacy sessions to empower seniors to navigate the digital world safely. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Proactive Measures Against Fraudulent Accounts
In the first half of 2025, Meta reported the detection and disruption of approximately 8 million accounts associated with scam operations in regions including Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Philippines. The company also took action against over 21,000 Facebook Pages and accounts impersonating customer support services to deceive users into sharing personal information. These efforts underscore Meta’s commitment to identifying and mitigating fraudulent activities across its platforms. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Guidance for Users to Avoid Scams
Meta advises users to exercise caution with unsolicited messages and to avoid sharing sensitive information such as bank account numbers, PINs, or one-time passwords (OTPs) during calls or chats. Users are encouraged to verify the authenticity of messages by consulting trusted contacts before responding. Additionally, relying solely on official customer service channels, rather than links shared by unknown individuals or responses on public forums, can help prevent falling victim to scams. ([about.fb.com](https://about.fb.com/news/2025/10/cybersecurity-awareness-month-helping-older-adults-avoid-online-scams/?utm_source=openai))
Conclusion
Meta’s introduction of these new features and initiatives reflects a concerted effort to enhance user safety and combat the growing threat of online scams, particularly those targeting older adults. By integrating advanced detection systems, promoting secure authentication methods, and fostering educational campaigns, Meta aims to empower users to navigate the digital landscape with greater confidence and security.
