Meta disables 1.4 million scam accounts in multi-company operation
Meta, Microsoft, Coinbase and Starlink worked with the Justice Department and several countries' police agencies to target Southeast Asia-based scam networks. The effort produced account takedowns, cryptocurrency freezes and dozens of arrests.
joemygod.comMeta disabled more than 1.4 million Facebook and Instagram accounts, pages and groups linked to Southeast Asia scam operations. The action formed part of a coordinated effort that also involved Microsoft, Coinbase, Starlink and the Justice Department.
Coordinated meetings and data sharing Representatives from the companies and law enforcement agencies met in Washington, DC, during the week of May 18. They exchanged information to connect activity across platforms and identify additional scam locations.
Meta stated the gathering marked the first time companies from different sectors collaborated in this manner. The Royal Thai Police and agencies from Australia, Canada and New Zealand also participated.
Results across participating companies Microsoft suspended 20,000 accounts used by the networks. Coinbase froze more than $3 million in cryptocurrency tied to the same activity. Starlink disconnected thousands of terminals it determined were supporting the operations.
Law enforcement agencies reported 63 arrests resulting from the shared intelligence. Meta said the participating companies intend to continue the collaboration. Meta previously removed more than 2 million accounts connected to pig-butchering schemes and took down 10.9 million accounts plus 159 million scam ads during 2025.
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