Context
On January 5th, a hacker compromised my Google account, impacting my Facebook account as well. Despite regaining control of Google, the hacker linked my Facebook to an Instagram account used for cryptocurrency scams, violating platform policies. This resulted in Facebook suspending my account, cutting off access to my personal data and impacting two businesses I run.
The uploaded bitcoin video, infamous for being part of a widespread scam, makes the undeserved nature of my suspension even more glaring. It’s clear that I’m a victim and not the perpetrator. Despite being the victim, I’m left feeling responsible for something I never did.
Even a month after regaining control from hackers, Facebook still restricts access to my personal data, violating GDPR rights. This data includes my pages, group, sensitive information, and bank details. Additionally, I’m locked out of ad receipts and reports, forcing me to block Meta across accounts to prevent fraudulent charges.
Adding to the frustration, Meta provides no effective means to contact them or seek assistance. Their silence amplifies the violation of trust and leaves users like me helpless…
A project is born
During this challenging time, I observed two distinct waves of stress. The first, upon realizing the hacking incident, gradually dissipated as Google took measures to secure and recover my account. The second wave, unexpected and more prolonged, emerged when dealing with Facebook and Meta’s unresponsiveness and lack of cooperation.
While facing this stress, I discovered online communities facing similar situations, suffering data loss, income disruption, and emotional distress due to unresponsive platform support. The absence of support, apologies, or acknowledgment from Facebook adds to the distress, leading some to legal actions and appeals to politicians for assistance.
From these challenges, a project was born, aiming to address these issues. #ImNOTaRobot is assembling a team of cybercrime specialists, psychologists, and other experts to investigate, support those affected, and advocate for change in the face of Facebook’s regrettable conduct.
Watch this space as we fight for positive change and rectify the unjust treatment faced by individuals who are not algorithms but human beings deserving of fair treatment and respect. In this endeavour, we affirm: I am a human. I am not an algorithm. I am not a robot.