The attorneys general of 41 US states sent a joint letter to Meta with robust criticism about the theft of accounts on Instagram and Facebook. Authorities say they can’t play the role of customer service, and that the group controlled by Mark Zuckerberg needs to take digital security measures.
It’s not new that there has been talk of fraud within Meta’s social networks. From time to time, I myself see Instagram profiles advertising incredible opportunities for fabulous earnings with rather questionable financial products. As a rule, it’s a scam. The account holder is left without access and criminals take the opportunity to spread fraudulent messages. It’s probably happened to you.
The National Association of Attorneys General denounces the use of public resources to address a situation faced by a specific private company. “Users spend years building their personal and professional lives on their platforms, posting intimate thoughts and sharing personal details, locations and photos of family and friends. To have that taken through no fault of their own can be traumatizing.”
The letter calls on Meta to take immediate steps to “substantially” increase investment in theft mitigation tactics.
The document is signed by the attorneys general of the following states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, as well as the District of Columbia.
For its part, Zuckerberg’s company said in a statement that scammers use every type of platform available and that they constantly adapt to evade efforts. He also listed investments in specialized personnel and tools to detect fraudulent activity.
Meta Verified
It’s worth remembering: Meta has turned user security into a kind of product. It is true that the company promises support for everyone who gets in touch, but Meta Verified subscribers (valid for Instagram and Facebook) guarantee priority in the long line of people looking for help. It costs $55/month.
