WhatsApp's Global Crackdown: 6.8 Million Scam Accounts Removed in Collaboration with Meta and OpenAI

TL;DR

WhatsApp, in collaboration with Meta and OpenAI, has successfully removed 6.8 million accounts linked to global scam centers, primarily in Cambodia. This article discusses the proactive measures taken, the sophisticated scam tactics used by criminals, and new anti-scam tools introduced by WhatsApp to enhance user safety.

Introduction

In a significant move to combat cybercrime, WhatsApp has removed 6.8 million accounts tied to criminal scam centers, predominantly located in Cambodia. This operation was conducted in a joint effort with Meta and OpenAI, targeting organized crime groups that exploit forced labor and operate extensive scam networks.

Global Scam Centers and Their Operations

Criminal Scam Centers

Scam centers are a major source of global fraud, often fueled by forced labor and operated by organized crime syndicates. These centers are primarily based in Southeast Asia and run multiple schemes designed to deceive victims. The scams typically begin with text messages or interactions on dating apps, then shift across various platforms to evade detection.

Proactive Measures by WhatsApp

WhatsApp’s proactive measures have been crucial in identifying and banning these accounts before they could be fully operationalized. According to Meta’s announcement, WhatsApp detected and took down these accounts as part of their ongoing efforts to protect users from scams ¹.

Recent Disruptions and Scam Tactics

Collaboration with OpenAI

Recently, WhatsApp, Meta, and OpenAI disrupted scams linked to a criminal group in Cambodia. These scams included fake paid likes, scooter rental schemes, and cryptocurrency cons. Scammers utilized advanced tools like ChatGPT to initiate contact with potential victims on WhatsApp, then moved them to Telegram where they were assigned tasks such as liking TikTok videos.

Building Trust and Exploiting Victims

To build trust, scammers would show fake earnings to victims before requesting cryptocurrency deposits. This tactic is designed to exploit the trust and fear of victims, convincing them to send money or personal information.

New Anti-Scam Tools by WhatsApp

Safety Overview for Groups

WhatsApp is introducing new anti-scam tools to protect its users. One of these tools is a safety overview that appears when users are added to unknown groups. This feature allows users to review group details before deciding to stay or leave. Notifications remain silenced until users make a choice.

Warnings for One-on-One Chats

For one-on-one chats, WhatsApp is testing warnings when users message people not in their contacts. These warnings provide additional context to help users pause and think before engaging, aiming to counter common scam tactics and keep users safer across the platform.

Tips to Avoid Scams in Private Messaging

Pause, Question, and Verify

WhatsApp experts recommend users to pause, question, and verify before responding to suspicious messages, especially from unknown numbers promising quick money or claiming urgent issues like unpaid bills. Scammers often exploit trust or fear to get people to send money or personal information.

Red Flags to Watch For

Always take a moment to assess the request, look for red flags such as high pay for little work or pressure to act fast, and confirm identities through a trusted communication method before engaging.

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s collaboration with Meta and OpenAI marks a significant step in the fight against global scam operations. By removing millions of scam accounts and introducing new safety features, WhatsApp is enhancing user protection and setting a precedent for proactive cybersecurity measures. Users are encouraged to stay vigilant and utilize the new tools provided to safeguard their personal information and financial assets.

References

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1. Meta. (2025). “Cracking Down on Organized Crime Scam Centers”. Retrieved 2025-08-06. ↩︎