Net closing on web scamsters
As the authorities warn against Crowd1, the role of social media in promoting pyramid schemes and shady scams is coming under increased scrutiny
Dozens of global brands have suspended advertising on Facebook in an effort to pressure the social media platform to address hate speech (see page 15) — and the boycott is expanding to other platforms, too.Over the weekend Starbucks announced it has suspended advertising on some social media platforms amid such concerns, joining international brands such as Coca-Cola, Diageo and Unilever.Facebook has long been criticised for its failure to moderate content, and has been accused of being instrumental in securing Donald Trump the White House four years ago.Among social media platforms, Facebook especially stands accused of not doing enough to stop hate speech and the spread of disinformation. In addition to its failure to manage political misinformation, the platform is also accused of allowing scamsters to advertise their wares without compunction.In the UK, Facebook has a facility that allows suspect ads to be reported to a central investigation office at the company for possible re...
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