Meta and FBI dismantle international fraud network

Meta, in collaboration with the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice, has dismantled an international fraud network, resulting in the removal of over 3.7 million fraudulent accounts, pages, and groups. The operation involved law enforcement agencies from several countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Canada, and India.

Most of the illicit activities originated from Nigeria and Ghana, targeting users in the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, and other nations. The criminals employed various tactics, including investment scams involving cryptocurrency, romance scams, and fake job offers. They also impersonated government officials to offer fraudulent assistance in recovering lost funds.

The crackdown led to the arrest of 28 individuals and the identification of over 30 fraud centers. Notably, the operation resulted in the rescue of 117 victims held in Ghana, who were reportedly subjected to violence and forced to participate in the fraudulent schemes. Authorities have also secured approximately $11 million in assets subject to freezing.