Meta removes explicit Facebook and Instagram ads used to spread malware after govt raises alarm: Report
Follow UsMeta has reportedly removed dozens of ads from Facebook and Instagram after the government raised concerns about a growing scam targeting users with sexually explicit content.
The ads were designed to attract users with sexually explicit content.
The ads used names such as "Night Play" and "Kyss" and directed users to websites that could spread malware.
Meta has reportedly removed dozens of ads from Facebook and Instagram after the government raised concerns about a growing scam targeting users with sexually explicit content. According to Reuters, the ads used names such as “Night Play” and “Kyss” and directed users to websites that could spread malware. The government said some of these campaigns promoted fake pornography apps that were actually malicious Android applications. These apps could steal sensitive information, including banking details and one-time passwords.
SurveyAccording to the government, the ads were designed to attract users with sexually explicit content. After clicking on them, users were directed to phishing websites. Some of these websites encouraged users to download Android apps outside official app stores.
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Reuters found at least 39 such ads that were still running after the government issued its advisory on Monday. Many of the ads used explicit video thumbnails to attract attention. Meta removed the ads after Reuters brought them to the company’s attention.
Meta’s policies do not allow ads that contain adult nudity or sexual activity. Its policies also ban advertisements for products or services that use deceptive or misleading practices, including scams designed to take money from users.
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One of the ads reviewed by Reuters directed users to a website promoting a video app. The website claimed to offer hundreds of pornographic videos and round-the-clock content. Users were asked to download a file called “Movexa.apk” directly, instead of getting an app through an official app store.
The Indian government warned that such apps could pose a serious security risk. They could potentially access information stored on a user’s phone, capture one-time passwords and bank PINs, and transfer money from bank accounts without the user’s knowledge.
The latest action comes weeks after India raised another concern involving a major technology platform. Reuters had earlier reported that the government asked Google to shut down hundreds of accounts on its Firebase platform. Criminals were allegedly using those accounts to impersonate major banks.
