Meta has taken legal action in the United States against individuals offering Instagram account trading and illegal account recovery services. The company announced this week that it has filed two separate lawsuits against people who allegedly violated Instagram’s policies.

Meta Declares War on the Black Market for Instagram Accounts

Meta has initiated legal proceedings for the first time in the U.S. against activities such as selling Instagram accounts and unauthorized account recovery. The company revealed that it had filed two lawsuits this week, marking the start of a legal battle against those engaging in these activities.

The first lawsuit, filed in California, targets photographer and entrepreneur Daniel Folger. According to the company’s claims, Folger has been selling Instagram usernames and recovering banned accounts since 2022, profiting illegally. The usernames are reported to be sold at prices ranging from $700 to $50,000.

Meta also alleges that Folger worked with a company employee to abuse the company’s internal dispute system and illegally reactivated suspended accounts. The second lawsuit was filed against an individual named Idriss Qibaa. Qibaa is accused of providing illegal services to close and reopen Instagram accounts, as well as selling fake followers and engagement.

Meta pointed out that Qibaa admitted to these activities during a podcast appearance in 2024, even threatening some users. Qibaa, who faces another criminal case, will be tried in May.

Although such illegal activities are not new, the lawsuits filed by Meta show that the company is now prepared to take stronger action. A spokesperson for Meta emphasized that the company would consider all legal options to protect users and continue the fight against these harmful activities.

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