Meta Releases New Tool to Protect Users from Fake Celebrity Ads

Meta is stepping up its fight against fake celebrity ads with a new tool designed to detect and block misleading promotions on Facebook and Instagram.

The company is responding to growing concerns about scammers using edited images and videos of well-known figures to deceive users into buying products, clicking on suspicious links, or sharing sensitive information.

How the tool works

This latest feature allows Meta to scan images and videos for signs of manipulation. If an ad appears to use a celebrity’s likeness in a suspicious way, the system flags it for review. Once confirmed as fake, the ad is removed before it can spread.

For public figures, Meta has introduced an option to opt in or out of the tool. When enabled, the system scans their official profile pictures and cross-checks them with images appearing in paid promotions. If a match is found in an unauthorized ad, it is automatically blocked.

Expanded protection for users

Beyond tackling fake ads, Meta is also integrating facial recognition into account recovery. This means users will have an extra layer of security when trying to regain access to locked accounts. The company assures that all facial data used in the verification process will comply with data protection laws, particularly in regions like the UK and the EU.

Growing concern over fake ads

Recently, BBC exposed an AI-generated fake ad featuring U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, while Nigerian agencies have had to repeatedly debunk false recruitment ads impersonating government institutions.

As digital scams become more sophisticated, Meta’s new tool could be a crucial step in protecting users and restoring trust in online advertising.