Meta is rolling out new tools to help users stay safe on WhatsApp and Messenger as scams continue to rise online.
On Messenger, the company has started testing improved scam detection that can flag suspicious chats when someone unknown sends a potentially risky message. When this happens, users can choose to share recent messages with Meta’s AI system, which will check for signs of a scam. If something looks wrong, the app will warn the user and suggest actions such as blocking or reporting the account involved. Meta says the feature is designed to teach people about common scam tactics and help them avoid falling victim.
This scam detection feature is turned on by default, though anyone who prefers not to use it can switch it off in the privacy and safety settings. Meta also announced a new warning system for WhatsApp video calls. When users start a call with someone they don’t know, the app will remind them to only share their screen with trusted contacts.
The company explains that scammers often pressure victims into screen sharing to steal private information, including banking details and login codes. By displaying this warning, Meta hopes more people will recognize suspicious behavior and stop scams before they happen.
WhatsApp has also added tools to make group chats safer. When a person is added to a group by someone they don’t know, the app now shows a safety card with details such as the group’s creation date, the number of members, and tips on how to protect yourself from scams.
The app will also notify users if they receive a message from someone outside their contact list, giving more context to help them decide whether to respond. These updates are designed to help people identify fake accounts and avoid sending sensitive information to strangers.
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