EU opens formal probe into Meta over fraudulent ads
The European Commission formally investigated Meta for allegedly failing to remove fraudulent advertisements from Facebook and Instagram in violation of the Digital Services Act, following complaints from EU lawmakers and consumer organizations across 27 countries.
What happened
The European Commission opened a formal procedure against Meta (Facebook and Instagram) for potential breaches of the Digital Services Act related to fraudulent advertisements, following a cross-party complaint by MEPs and consumer organizations.
The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and 29 national consumer associations from 27 countries reported that of nearly 900 reported fraudulent advertisements, only 27% were removed from Meta's platforms.
Reported impact
Consumer groups alleged that Meta systematically failed to address fraudulent advertisements on its social media platforms.
Index analysis
The Commission confirmed it is utilizing evidence submitted by MEPs and consumer organizations in the formal investigation into Meta's handling of fraudulent ads under Digital Services Act provisions.
Governance controls
The Commission announced plans for a digital fraud action plan by autumn 2026 and established a working group within the European Digital Services Council to coordinate national enforcement strategies against online fraud.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.