Messenger

Meta is rolling out Scam Alert, an optional beta feature for WhatsApp that uses an on-device machine-learning model to flag likely scam messages from users who are not in a contact's list. The alert examines incoming messages for patterns associated with fraud but only displays a warning banner rather than blocking communication. Users are also advised to enable two-step verification and regularly review their linked devices for account security.

Russia’s anti-monopoly agency has threatened Apple with a $49.7 million fine for not complying with demands to remove foreign search engines and pre-install Kremlin-backed digital services. Apple had previously removed a messenger from its marketplace in June.

Meta Platforms reported a 14% year-over-year decline in second-quarter profit to $15.85 billion due to $2.4 billion in legal expenses and $1.18 billion in severance costs from layoffs. Revenue rose 28% to $60.8 billion, exceeding analyst expectations, but shares fell 4.2% in after-hours trading.

Meta Platforms reported a 14% decline in Q2 profit to $15.85 billion due to legal expenses and severance costs from recent layoffs, despite a 28% revenue increase to $60.8 billion. The company's shares fell 4.2% in after-hours trading, and CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted AI's role in driving future growth. Total expenses rose 55% year-over-year to $42.03 billion, including $2.4 billion in legal charges and $1.18 billion in severance.

A user received unsolicited spam texts from an unknown number, followed by multiple casino site messages claiming they had unclaimed money. The user blocked and reported the numbers but remains concerned about how their phone number was obtained despite rarely sharing it and primarily using online messaging apps.

A phishing scam impersonating Meta threatens Facebook users with account deletion, using a fake Messenger message with a typo in the name 'Meta Verrified' and vague accusations. The scam includes a suspicious PDF attachment and urgent language to pressure users into acting.

A poisoned notification from apps like WhatsApp, Slack, or Instagram could hijack Google Gemini's voice assistant on Android, enabling actions like opening connected windows, faking messages, initiating Zoom calls, or poisoning the device's memory. No malicious app is required for the attack.

Meta achieved a partial victory in EU courts as the General Court ruled its Marketplace should not be designated under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), but its Messenger service remains subject to the regulation.

Japan’s Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have confirmed the BepiColombo mission will arrive at Mercury on November 21, 2026, following a delayed schedule due to a thruster glitch. The mission, involving three spacecraft, aims to study Mercury’s interior and magnetosphere, marking humanity’s third mission to the planet.

Meta is rolling out new features to its Meta Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, including a virtual writing feature that uses hand gestures. The feature will be available on WhatsApp, Messenger, Instagram, and native Android and iOS messaging. This upgrade brings the feature to all users after an early access launch in January.

A new Android remote access trojan called Mirax is targeting Spanish-speaking countries by turning infected devices into SOCKS5 proxies. The malware spread through Meta's platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Threads, reaching over 220,000 accounts via advertisements.