Meta has removed approximately 63,000 Instagram accounts and 7,200 Facebook assets linked to Nigerian financial sextortion scams. This move targets cybercriminals known as “Yahoo Boys” and follows a report revealing the extent of these fraudulent activities. Meta's crackdown is part of its broader effort to combat online fraud.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has launched a significant crackdown on cybercriminals in Nigeria, targeting individuals involved in financial sextortion scams. In a recent report titled "Combating Financial Sextortion Scams From Nigeria," Meta revealed the removal of approximately 63,000 Instagram accounts linked to these illicit activities. The purge also affected a coordinated network of around 2,500 accounts.
The decision follows a Bloomberg Businessweek exposé that highlighted the rise of financial sextortion scams, many of which are traced back to Nigeria. These scams, often perpetrated by groups known as "Yahoo Boys," have been increasingly prevalent, involving fake accounts to extort victims by threatening to release compromising materials.
Meta's action also included the removal of around 7,200 assets on Facebook, encompassing 1,300 accounts, 200 pages, and 5,700 groups. These accounts were involved in various scam-related activities, such as providing tips, selling scripts, and sharing links for fraudulent operations. The company utilized advanced technical signals and in-depth investigations to identify and address these accounts.
This crackdown is part of Meta's broader effort to combat online fraud and collaborate with other tech companies through the Tech Coalition’s Lantern program. The move comes amidst increased scrutiny from Nigerian authorities and ongoing efforts by global law enforcement to tackle cybercrime. Meta continues to support investigations and legal actions related to these crimes, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing online safety
