Meta warns spyware still being used to target people on social media

In one case, Meta said it removed more than 100 accounts on Facebook and Instagram linked to a company called Avalanche in Russia, which it said sold access to a platform that allows spying across the internet. Meta said a host of individuals and groups were targeted using the Russian network, from environmental activists, members of the media, NGOs in the US and politicians. Other companies that were removed from Meta platforms include a New York-based company called Social Links, which was originally based in Russia, and Cyberglobes, based in Israel.

Twitter was not available for comment.

In one case, Meta said it shut down a network of 900 fake Instagram and Facebook accounts operating from China, which appeared to focus on people in Myanmar, India, Taiwan, the US and China, including military personnel, pro-democracy activists, government employees, politicians and journalists.

Avalanche could not be reached for comment. Social Links and Cyberglobes did not immediately return requests for comment.