India has emerged as the second most targeted country for global cyber scams, according to Meta's newly released Adversarial Threat Report 2026, which highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybercrime operations.
The report placed India right behind the United States in terms of cybercriminal targeting. Meta noted that threat actors are now organised into highly structured groups that resemble professional businesses, using social media, messaging platforms and digital tools to identify victims and execute large-scale scams.
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A major concern outlined in the report is the rapid adoption of AI in cyber fraud. Criminals are using AI to generate realistic messages, fake profiles and sophisticated phishing websites. Deepfake technology has further blurred the line between authentic and manipulated content.
The misuse of AI-powered "nudify" apps has also grown into a significant threat. These tools can create fake explicit images without consent, posing serious risks to privacy and personal safety, and opening avenues for harassment and extortion.
Financial losses linked to cybercrime in India have surged sharply. In 2024 alone, estimated losses exceeded Rs 22,000 crore, underscoring the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks. Many phishing scams are now powered by AI-generated communication, making them harder to detect.
Meta says it has acted against such threats by removing millions of fake accounts and scam-related pages. However, cybersecurity experts stress that stronger legislation, stricter enforcement and deeper global collaboration are essential to effectively counter cybercrime.
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They also emphasise the need for improved digital awareness among users, as a lack of understanding about online risks continues to leave many vulnerable. Promoting safe internet practices is seen as a crucial step in reducing the impact of scams.
The report calls for coordinated global efforts, tighter regulations and enhanced user education to combat the growing menace of AI-driven cyber fraud.
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