- SEBI now mandates verified contact details for financial ads on social media, enhancing transparency.
- WhatsApp banned 99 lakh Indian accounts in January 2025 to curb scams.
- Both moves aim to protect investors and digital users from fraudulent activities.
SEBI’s new directive requires all registered intermediaries advertising on social media platforms like Google, Meta, and WhatsApp to use SEBI-verified contact details.
Meanwhile, WhatsApp’s massive crackdown on fraudulent accounts highlights its commitment to preventing spam, scams, and fake profiles.
Stronger Digital Security: SEBI & WhatsApp’s Bold Moves
SEBI’s proactive regulation follows a surge in fraud cases where scammers misled investors through social media ads promoting fake investment courses and guaranteed returns. By verifying intermediary accounts, SEBI aims to block unauthorized entities from using social media platforms to manipulate investors. This step will also encourage greater accountability from financial service providers.
WhatsApp’s fraud prevention system relies on advanced AI-driven detection tools that automatically identify and remove suspicious accounts. The January 2025 mass ban is the largest recorded in India, showing the platform’s focus on user protection. Scammers have long exploited WhatsApp for phishing attacks, Ponzi schemes, and unauthorized financial promotions, making this action a significant deterrent.
Investors should remain vigilant even with these security measures in place. SEBI’s initiative will help prevent fraudulent financial ads, but users must independently verify any investment opportunity before engaging. Similarly, while WhatsApp’s bans reduce risks, scammers constantly evolve their tactics, requiring continuous user awareness.
The digital landscape in India is evolving, and regulatory bodies and tech giants are taking serious steps to enhance security. SEBI’s rule promotes a safer investment environment, while WhatsApp’s crackdown ensures secure digital interactions. Together, these moves mark a major step in making online financial transactions more trustworthy.
With increasing fraud risks in the digital era, SEBI’s regulations and WhatsApp’s security measures bring much-needed safeguards. However, user awareness remains key to staying protected.
“Trust but verify.” – Ronald Reagan
