Online scammers could soon face tougher barriers on social media, according to the Times Union. A proposed New York bill would force platforms to add stronger safeguards and make it easier for users to report fraud.
The SAFE Platforms Act would require companies to verify advertisers, reveal advertisers’ legal identities and locations, and improve reporting tools. Lawmakers say scams spread easily through targeted ads, fake profiles and direct messages.
If companies fail to act, the bill would allow penalties of up to $5,000 per day per violation and restitution for victims. Supporters say the effort comes as online scams cost Americans $16.6 billion in 2024.
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