Meta Removes Fake 'INSS Expert' Instagram Used to Illegally Recruit Clients

Overview

• Meta deactivated the “Dr. Perito do INSS” account after an extrajudicial notice from the Attorney General’s Office, which acted through its democracy defense unit at the Social Security Ministry’s request.
• The profile posed as a medical expert from Brazil’s social security agency and drew nearly 300,000 followers to steer people to a private benefits law firm.
• Authorities said the conduct may fit four Penal Code crimes, naming electronic fraud, usurpation of public function, falsification of public seal or mark, and false identity.
• Officials said Meta also removed the Samara Vieira law firm’s Instagram profile and a linked WhatsApp Business account used to capture clients.
• The legal basis cited was an STF ruling on Article 19 of the Internet Civil Framework, which allows holding platforms responsible for illicit third‑party content in defined situations.