Meta Shares Safety Tips to Help Older Adults Avoid Online Scams

Meta has released new online safety tips and tools aimed at helping older adults identify and avoid scams as part of its global anti-scam awareness campaign.

Since the start of 2025, Meta has detected and disrupted nearly 8 million fraudulent accounts on Facebook and Instagram linked to global scam networks targeting users, including older adults, through social media, messaging apps, dating platforms, cryptocurrency, and other online channels.

“The fight against scams and fraud is a relentless one, and we are continually evolving our defences to stay ahead of bad actors,” said Kojo Boakye, Vice President of Public Policy, Africa, Middle East, and Türkiye at Meta. “This is part of our unwavering commitment to protect our users, not just by banning malicious accounts, but by empowering individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to recognise and avoid these sophisticated threats.”

Meta’s latest update highlights key safety tips for older adults and their families:

• Be cautious with unsolicited messages or calls. Never share personal or financial details with unknown contacts.

• Pause and verify. Talk to someone you trust before responding to urgent or suspicious messages.

• Use official customer support channels.  Avoid clicking on links in texts or emails; contact companies through verified websites or helplines.

• Discuss online safety openly. Families are encouraged to talk about common scams and set up account security alerts together.

To strengthen online protection, Meta has introduced new anti-scam tools, including:

• Warnings on WhatsApp when users attempt to share screens with unknown contacts during video calls.

• Passkeys for Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp, allowing secure sign-ins using fingerprints, facial recognition, or PINs.

• Security and Privacy Checkups across Meta platforms, offering personalised guidance on passwords, privacy settings, and login alerts.

Meta reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing digital safety through ongoing security innovation and partnerships aimed at building a safer online community for everyone.