Ensuring Safety for Players and Fans at FIFA World Cup 2026

Meta Takes Action Against Scams and Abuse Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, Meta has announced a series of initiatives aimed at protecting fans from scams and online abuse. With the tournament set to attract millions of viewers worldwide, the company is ramping up efforts to ensure a safe environment for users engaging with its platforms during this major sporting event.

Combating Scams

Scammers are known to exploit high-profile events like the FIFA World Cup, leading to an uptick in fraudulent activities such as ticket scams and misleading offers for accommodations. In response, Meta is enhancing its anti-scam measures by investing in advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and developing new tools designed to help users identify and avoid scams. The company is also collaborating with law enforcement agencies and industry partners to hold scammers accountable.

Meta’s proactive approach includes the Global Signal Exchange (GSE) and the Fraud Intelligence Reciprocal Exchange (FIRE), initiatives aimed at disrupting scam networks across multiple platforms. A notable collaboration with Visa has already yielded results; through timely information sharing, Meta was able to dismantle a network on Facebook that was promoting fake gambling content linked to spoofed websites mimicking official FIFA branding.

These efforts will continue as the tournament approaches, ensuring that Meta remains vigilant against evolving scam tactics before, during, and after the event.

Educating Consumers

This week, Meta launched a Facebook pop-up notification system that will remind users to purchase tickets only from verified sources. When users search for FIFA World Cup tickets or engage with related groups on Facebook, they will receive alerts highlighting what to watch for when buying tickets. Additionally, links to reporting tools will be provided so that suspicious content can be flagged easily.

In partnership with organizations like the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and Mexico’s Consumer Protection Agency (PROFECO), Meta is also supporting national campaigns aimed at raising awareness about common scams expected during the tournament. These initiatives focus on educating fans about potential pitfalls such as fake ticket sales and impersonation of official websites.

Combating Abuse

Meta has established clear guidelines against bullying, harassment, violent threats, and hateful conduct directed at players and fans alike. The company actively removes such content when detected and employs AI technology alongside community reports to identify violations proactively. Between October and December 2025 alone, Meta removed approximately 2.6 million pieces of hateful content across Facebook and Instagram.

The company maintains open lines of communication with players, teams, and associations worldwide to ensure they are aware of safety policies and features. Recent updates include tools like “Restrict” on Instagram and moderation features on Facebook that allow users to control interactions more effectively. For instance, professional accounts can utilize Moderation Assist to filter comments based on specific criteria.

Users also have options to limit direct message requests from non-followers on Instagram or report messages that may violate community standards. Additional features are being developed in response to feedback from public figures who wish to maintain engagement with their communities while still having access to safety tools.

Enhanced Safety Features

Meta is continuously working on enhancing user safety through various innovative features. The “Hidden Words” safety feature on Instagram automatically filters out offensive comments or direct message requests containing harmful language or spam. Users can customize their own lists of words they wish to block further.

The “Limit Interactions” feature allows public figures to temporarily restrict comments and DMs from specific groups of people, particularly useful during high-traffic events like matches where fan engagement spikes significantly. This tool helps manage unwanted interactions while still allowing meaningful connections with supporters.

Furthermore, Meta has made strides in preventing abusers from easily creating new profiles to harass others online. Nudges have been introduced on Instagram encouraging users to reconsider potentially hurtful posts before sharing them publicly.

What This Means

The steps taken by Meta in anticipation of the FIFA World Cup 2026 highlight a commitment not only to user safety but also to fostering a positive environment for fans globally. By addressing both scams and online abuse head-on, Meta aims to create a more secure digital space where soccer enthusiasts can connect without fear of exploitation or harassment during one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events.

For more information, read the original report here.