Facebook’s own estimates suggest duplicate accounts represent approximately 11% of monthly active users while fake versions make up another 5%. AdvertisementGrowth in user numbers looks significantly less impressive once adjusted for duplicate and fake accounts — up 7% in the past two years, rather than 18% calculated by Facebook. Last year, the chief executive told Congress users were “not allowed” to have fake accounts. Fake accounts can be used to boost follower numbers, which is useful for online influencers who are paid for plugging products or services. “The advertisers keep coming back because of the results they get.”Data in doubtExactly how many fake accounts Facebook has is open to debate.

Source: Los Angeles Times November 18, 2019 23:37 UTC