Facebook has announced that it has filed suit against two app developers who used malware to create fake user clicks on Facebook ads.
In an announcement earlier this month, Facebook’s Director of Platform Enforcement and Litigation, Jessica Romero detailed a lawsuit against two developers for click injection fraud, using Google Play to spread malware to users’ devices which then generated fake clicks on Facebook ads.
The two developers – Hong Kong-based LionMobi and Singapore-based JediMobi – were able to generate “unearned payouts” by tricking Facebook into believing that real users had clicked on Facebook ads. The ads ran as part of Facebook’s Audience Network.
However, LionMobi also advertised malicious apps using Facebook ads, in clear violation of the company’s Advertising Policies.
Romero explained that the discovery of the click injection fraud was “part of our continuous efforts to investigate and stop abuse by app developers and any abuse” of Facebook’s advertising products, and the ensuing “lawsuit is one of the first of its kind against this practice.” We are sure it won’t be the last, either.
Both developers have now also been banned from advertising on Audience Network, and their related accounts have been disabled. Romero also explained that those advertisers that were impacted by the click injection fraud were refunded in March 2019.
Over the last few years, Facebook has faced continued issues with its advertising platform being used for malicious purposes and is constantly trying to stay ahead of scammers and bad actors. This latest case is only one of the many being investigated for any number of violations of Facebook’s Advertising Policies.
You might also like
More from Facebook
Meta May Soon Alert You When Your Posts Are Removed By AI
According to reports, Meta is rolling out a system that notifies users when their posts are removed and how.
Meta Is Working On A Universal Speech Translator
Meta's latest AI project seeks to extend advanced translation options to lesser-used languages and to develop a universal speech translator.
Instagram Retires Boomerang And Hyperlapse Standalone Apps
Boomerang and Hyperlapse standalone apps have been removed from app stores as their functionality is already available within Reels.
Meta Demos Voice Controlled Builder Bot That Creates VR Spaces
Meta's latest AI research introduces a prototype technology capable of generating immersive objects through voice commands only.
Facebook Is Removing The Ability To Create Profile Frames
As part of its efforts to continue banning anti-vax messages, Meta is removing the ability for users to create frames.
Facebook Is About To Shut Down Campus
Facebook has informed users via an in-app message that it will be shutting down Campus - its college-focused social network.
Meta Updates Its Company Values
In the aftermath of its major rebranding, Meta is announcing a new company mission formed by a group of values.
Messenger Provides New Guide On Online Safety
Messenger has published a handy decision tree graphic that guides users and parents to find the safety features they need.
Facebook’s ‘News Feed’ Is Now Just ‘Feed’
After 15 years, Facebook is changing the name of its home page in an effort to move away from the …
