Meta Launches ‘Scams se Bacho’ Campaign to Combat Online Fraud
In a significant move to tackle the growing menace of online scams, Meta has launched a new safety campaign titled ‘Scams se Bacho.’ This initiative features the popular Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana and aims to educate users on how to protect themselves from online scams while promoting safer digital practices.
This campaign is a collaborative effort between Meta and three prominent Indian government agencies: the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB). It underscores Meta’s dedication to enhancing online safety and aligns with the Indian Government’s objectives to curb the increasing cases of scams and cyber fraud in the country.
Raising Awareness Through Education
The ‘Scams se Bacho’ campaign highlights some of the most prevalent scams that people encounter in their daily online activities. By showcasing these scenarios, the campaign encourages individuals to remain vigilant and exercise caution before taking any action online. It emphasizes how simple yet effective safety features available on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp can empower users. These tools help individuals take control of their online safety and protect themselves from scams and fraudulent activities.
In the campaign film, Ayushmann Khurrana plays the role of a sharp-witted wedding guest who prevents individuals from falling victim to scams through his quick thinking and comedic approach. The film highlights key safety features such as two-factor authentication, the ability to block and report suspicious accounts, and WhatsApp’s group privacy settings. These features serve as crucial reminders of the built-in product features and safety tools that equip users with the necessary safeguards against online threats.
Meta’s Commitment to Online Safety
Shivnath Thukral, Vice President and Head of Public Policy at Meta India, expressed the company’s commitment to combating online scams. He stated, "We recognize the severity of the rising incidents of online scams and believe that addressing this issue requires concrete and cooperative measures across the ecosystem. Meta continues to invest in technology and resources to stay ahead of scammers. Our safety campaign ‘Scams se Bacho’ is an extension of our efforts to educate users about the safety tools and features they have at their fingertips to protect themselves from scams online. We hope this campaign resonates with our users and equips them with the information they need to secure themselves, along with reinforcing consumer habits that can help them stay safe and protect their friends and family."
Ayushmann Khurrana’s Role in Promoting Digital Safety
Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana expressed his enthusiasm for being part of Meta’s safety initiative. He commented, "In today’s digital landscape, with the rampant increase of online scams and frauds that sometimes can seem very convincing, it’s crucial that we stay vigilant and educate ourselves about how to stay safe. I’m thrilled to be a part of Meta’s safety initiative that aims to drive awareness around how people can safeguard themselves from potential cyber scams. It’s an important reminder to think twice before you act and use Meta’s safety tools at your disposal, empowering you to take control of your online safety."
Meta’s Ongoing Efforts in Enhancing Digital Safety
Meta has a robust infrastructure dedicated to ensuring user safety and security. Globally, the company employs over 40,000 people focused on safety and security measures. Since 2016, Meta has invested more than $20 billion in teams and technology to stay ahead of scammers and enhance user safety. This includes 15,000 content reviewers who examine content across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads in more than 70 languages, including 20 Indian languages.
Over the past three years, Meta has introduced over 50 safety tools and features to promote online safety. The company is continually exploring new ways to educate consumers about online safety and strengthen its systems against scam content.
Understanding Online Scams and How to Protect Yourself
Online scams can take various forms, such as phishing emails, fake online offers, and fraudulent social media messages. These scams are designed to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information or transferring money. Scammers often use sophisticated tactics to make these scams appear genuine, making it crucial for users to be aware of the red flags and take preventive measures.
Here are some practical tips to protect yourself from online scams:
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
- Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, or social security numbers online unless you are certain of the recipient’s authenticity.
- Verify the Source: Before clicking on any links or downloading attachments, verify the sender’s identity. Scammers often use fake email addresses or social media profiles to impersonate legitimate organizations.
- Use Privacy Settings: Adjust privacy settings on social media and messaging platforms to control who can see your personal information and posts.
- Report Suspicious Activities: If you encounter any suspicious accounts or messages, report them to the platform to help prevent others from falling victim.
Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against online scams. By utilizing the safety features provided by platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, users can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to online fraud.
For more information on Meta’s safety features and initiatives, you can visit their official website.
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