Meta rolls out new tools to protect seniors from online scams: 5 key things to know

Meta’s new focus on online safety for seniors
Meta has introduced new tools and awareness campaigns to protect users, especially older adults, from scams and online fraud. The company aims to make the digital world safer through smarter technology and education. This initiative builds on Meta’s ongoing efforts to help people identify, avoid, and report online scams.

Smarter scam warnings on WhatsApp and Messenger
On WhatsApp, users will now see a warning if they try to share their screen with an unknown contact during a video call — a common scam tactic. On Messenger, Meta is testing an AI-based scam detection tool that flags suspicious chats and helps users block or report potential scammers.

Strengthened security features across Meta apps
Meta is expanding tools like Passkeys, which let users securely log in using their phone’s fingerprint, face, or PIN. Facebook and Instagram users can also access Security Checkup to review passwords and settings, while WhatsApp’s Privacy Checkup helps people control who can add them to groups and adjust privacy levels easily.

Partnerships to spread digital awareness in India
Meta is teaming up with India’s Department of Telecommunications for the ‘Scams Se Bacho’ campaign. It includes multilingual educational videos and training sessions under the Saksham Senior initiative, which helps senior citizens confidently use digital platforms, recognize scam patterns, and protect themselves from fraud through hands-on learning programs nationwide.

Global crackdown on scam networks
Meta’s security teams have blocked over 8 million scam-linked accounts and 21,000 fake customer service pages this year. Many of these were run by organized groups across Asia and the Middle East. Meta also urges older adults to stay alert — never share personal info, double-check contacts, and avoid suspicious links.