Meta has removed dozens of advertisements from Facebook and Instagram after Indian authorities flagged a scam that used sexually explicit content to trick users into downloading malware capable of stealing sensitive banking information.
Reuters reported on Monday that the Indian government identified advertisements operating under names including “Night Play” and “Kyss.”
Ads Directed Users to Malicious Android Apps
The advertisements allegedly sent users to phishing websites and promoted malicious Android apps disguised as pornography applications.
One advertisement reviewed by Reuters directed users to a website promising hundreds of pornographic videos and 24-hour access.
Users were then prompted to download an Android package named “Movexa.apk.”
According to a government advisory, the malicious apps could secretly access information stored on users’ devices, intercept one-time passwords, and capture banking PINs.
Criminals could potentially use the stolen information to transfer money without the account holder’s knowledge.
Reuters found at least 39 advertisements still active after the government issued its advisory on Monday.
Meta removed the advertisements shortly after Reuters brought them to the company’s attention.
Meta’s advertising policies prohibit adult nudity and sexual activity, as well as deceptive practices and scams intended to obtain money from users.
Meta did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
India Faces Growing Cyber-Fraud Problem
The incident comes as India deals with increasing financial cybercrime.
Government data shows that the country recorded nearly $2.4 billion in cyber-fraud losses in 2025.
The case also follows another recent investigation involving Google.
Indian authorities ordered Google to shut down hundreds of Firebase accounts allegedly being used to impersonate major banks.
In June, Indian authorities also temporarily restricted access to Telegram following allegations that leaked National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) question papers were being distributed through the platform.
Meta Shares Dip
Meta shares closed Monday at $572.34, down 0.98%.
The stock was trading at $572.00 after hours, down another 0.059%, according to Benzinga Pro.
Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings places Meta in the 78th percentile for growth, although the company’s shares have underperformed over short-, medium-, and long-term periods.
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