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In response to a strict notice from the Indian government, Meta has issued a clarification. A spokesperson for the company stated to a media channel that their policy regarding content related to child sexual abuse and exploitation is one of zero tolerance, whether it pertains to advertisements or regular posts.

Use of Advanced Technology

Meta explained that they employ advanced artificial intelligence technology to identify such harmful content and apprehend offenders. According to the company, their specialized teams are continuously working to catch criminals who operate among their 3.5 billion users.

Warning of Legal Action from the Government

Previously, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology ordered Instagram to promptly remove all such content and advertisements. The government clearly warned that if Meta fails to respond with complete information within seven days, legal action could be initiated under the IT Act and the POCSO Act of 2012. The government also demanded immediate improvements to the algorithm that was promoting such content.

Significant Revelations from BBC Report

This issue came to light following a BBC report that alleged Instagram and Facebook were promoting videos related to child exploitation in violation of their advertising policies. The investigation revealed that users were paying to use terms like 'rape videos' and 'child videos' on Instagram. Clicking on these ads redirected users to Telegram channels where such illegal content was being sold.

Meta's Accountability for Revenue-Generating Ads

The government has posed tough questions to Meta regarding how such advertisements were approved and what measures the company plans to implement to prevent this in the future. According to government sources, Meta cannot absolve itself by claiming that the content belongs to a third party. Since Meta profits significantly from displaying these ads, if the allegations are proven true, the company will be held fully accountable for them.