Meta deploys AI and new safety tools to protect World Cup fans and players

AS MILLIONS of football supporters prepare to follow the FIFA World Cup 2026, technology giant Meta announced it is rolling out a range of new safety measures aimed at protecting fans and players from online scams, fraud and abuse.

- ASHLEY LECHMAN

With the tournament expected to generate unprecedented levels of digital engagement, the company warned that cybercriminals are already exploiting the excitement surrounding the global sporting spectacle through fake ticket sales, fraudulent accommodation offers and impersonation scams.

"In the coming weeks, soccer fans across the globe will use our apps to connect around the FIFA World Cup 2026. While most will be rooting for their favourite teams and players, unfortunately there may be bad actors who will try to lure people into scams or harass and abuse others, offline and online," Meta said.

One of the key initiatives being introduced is a new Facebook pop up notification that will appear when users search for FIFA World Cup ticket related content or visit associated groups.

The feature will remind users to purchase tickets only from verifiable sources and provide direct links to Meta's reporting tools for suspicious accounts or content.