Meta is rolling out new protections across its apps ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, as scammers look to exploit fan excitement around the biggest tournament.
The company is introducing new in-app ticket-scam warnings on Facebook, expanding protections against abuse for players and teams, and continuing its collaboration to disrupt scam networks.
Security experts have warned of a growing “World Cup scam economy” ahead of kickoff, with cybercriminals using fake ticketing sites, fraudulent visa offers, counterfeit merchandise and scam crypto schemes to target fans.
Facebook adds ticket scam warnings
From this week, people who search for terms related to FIFA World Cup tickets on Facebook or visit related Groups will see reminders about what to watch out for before buying tickets.
The prompts will also link users to Meta’s reporting tools if they encounter suspicious content or accounts.
Meta said the update is designed to help fans identify risky listings and avoid fraudulent ticketing activity during the tournament period.
Meta and Visa disrupt scam network
Meta has also worked with Visa through the Global Signal Exchange to disrupt a scam network on Facebook.
The network used spoofed FIFA World Cup branding to promote fraudulent gambling websites and collect users’ personal or financial information.
Expanded protections for players and fans
Meta is also expanding protections for athletes, including a new Facebook feature for tournament players and teams that hides potentially offensive comments.
The feature builds on Instagram’s existing Hidden Words tool, which helps filter abusive messages and comments.
Between October and December 2025, Meta removed 2.6 million pieces of hateful content on Facebook and Instagram, with 74% found proactively before anyone reported it.