Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has taken decisive action against a widespread sextortion scheme originating from Nigeria. The tech giant has removed approximately 63,000 Instagram accounts and numerous Facebook groups linked to this criminal activity, which primarily targets adult males in the United States but has also attempted to exploit minors.
Sextortion, a form of blackmail involving explicit photos, has seen a troubling rise in recent years. The scheme, often associated with a group known as the Yahoo Boys, involves tricking victims into sharing compromising images and then demanding money or sexual favors to prevent their public release.
Meta’s investigation uncovered a coordinated network of about 2,500 accounts managed by a core group of around 20 individuals. The company has implemented its policy on “dangerous organizations and individuals” to dismantle these operations. In response to the growing threat, Meta is also testing new protective features on Instagram, including automatic blurring of nudity in direct messages.
Antigone Davis, Meta’s global head of security, advises users to be cautious of messages from unfamiliar, exceptionally attractive profiles with highly stylized photos. She emphasizes the importance of skepticism when approached by strangers online, as this is a common tactic used by scammers to gain trust.
Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have noted a significant increase in sextortion cases, particularly those targeting minors. Meta’s actions represent a crucial step in combating this dangerous trend and protecting vulnerable users online.