Meta accused of letting AI sellers run rampant on its platforms

Meta faces criticism over fake AI sellers

Facebook’s parent company, Meta, has been accused of enabling deceptive companies selling fake or misleading AI services to operate freely on its platforms. According to complaints from users and watchdogs, dozens of such sellers have been promoting illegitimate AI tools and products through Facebook Marketplace and Instagram ads.

Widespread misuse of Meta platforms

Consumer rights groups claim these sellers often masquerade as legitimate providers of advanced AI tools, charging users for systems that either fail to function or do not exist. Reports suggest Meta’s content moderation systems have failed to curb these activities, allowing misleading campaigns to spread across its network.

“Meta is letting AI scammers run rampant while profiting from their ads,” one advocate said, arguing that the company benefits financially from the very problem it facilitates.

Meta’s response and regulatory scrutiny

In response to media inquiries, Meta stated that it takes user safety seriously and is “continually improving detection mechanisms” against fraudulent ads. However, critics argue these improvements are insufficient and too slow compared to the speed at which new scams appear.

Regulators in several countries have already signaled interest in reviewing Meta’s advertising oversight, warning that tech giants could face harsher penalties if they fail to tackle AI-related fraud effectively.

The growing risk of AI-related scams

Experts note that the explosion of interest in artificial intelligence during 2024–2025 has attracted bad actors seeking to exploit public fascination. These scams often use buzzwords like “ChatGPT,” “AI trading bot,” or “automated earning tool” to lure victims into paying for fake products or giving away personal information.

Meta’s platforms, given their global reach, have become a key battlefield in the fight against this new wave of digital deception.

“Without strong platform accountability, the AI gold rush risks turning into a massive consumer trap,” said another digital ethics researcher.

Author summary: Meta is under fire for allegedly letting AI scammers spread unchecked across Facebook and Instagram, raising concerns over weak ad moderation and growing digital fraud.

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BBC on MSN BBC on MSN — 2025-11-29

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