Meta removes fraudulent ads targeting users in India

Meta has removed dozens of advertisements from Facebook and Instagram following warnings from Indian authorities regarding a malware campaign. The fraudulent ads, operating under names such as ‘Night Play’ and ‘Kyss’, utilized sexually explicit content to trick users into downloading malicious Android applications designed to steal banking credentials and empty accounts.

This crackdown follows reports that India recorded nearly US$ 2.4 billion in cyber fraud losses in 2025, driven by the country’s digital payment boom. While Reuters reported that at least 39 of these ads remained active after the initial government alert, Meta removed them shortly after being notified of the situation. Meta’s own policies prohibit adult nudity and deceptive practices intended to defraud users.