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Cyprus Trade Dynamics: Balancing Export Growth Against Import Surge

The initial months of 2025 signal a complex economic landscape for Cyprus, driven by robust export performance but overshadowed by a more pronounced rise in imports. According to recent data from the Cyprus Statistical Service, the nation’s trade deficit experienced an increase of €102.7 million, reaching a total of €1.24 billion.

Exports On The Rise

Cyprus saw its goods exports climb by a substantial 55.9%, totaling €913.3 million, thanks to strengthening market presence. February 2025 itself showcased a notable export figure of €476.4 million, representing a 73.8% jump from February 2024.

Import Surge Expands Deficit

Despite the encouraging export growth, imports surged even higher, growing by 24.8% and reaching €2,160.7 million. The month of February alone witnessed an import volume of €1,027.2 million, marking an 18.9% year-on-year increase.

Diversified Trade: EU And Beyond

EU trade reveals intriguing dynamics with imports from EU members at €560.8 million and third-country imports considerably higher at €466.4 million. February’s export distribution includes €117.4 million to EU partners and €359.0 million to non-EU countries.

Meta Unveils Advanced Scam Detection Initiatives Across Its Platforms

Meta Strengthens Its Defense Against Digital Scams

Meta has introduced a series of new security tools aimed at reducing online scams across its platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp and Messenger. The update focuses on detecting suspicious activity earlier and warning users before fraudulent interactions escalate, as digital scams continue to evolve across social networks and messaging services.

Enhanced Friend Request Alerts On Facebook

New warning systems currently being tested on Facebook are designed to flag suspicious friend requests. The system evaluates signals such as a lack of mutual connections or unusual geographic origins. When these indicators appear, users receive alerts encouraging them to review the request more carefully before accepting. The feature aims to help users identify potentially fraudulent profiles and avoid interactions with scammers.

Preventing Device Linking Fraud On WhatsApp

Additional protections are being introduced on WhatsApp through new device-linking alerts. These notifications target scams in which fraudsters impersonate organizers of competitions or promotional campaigns and ask users to visit phishing websites.

Victims are typically instructed to enter their phone number and a device linking code, which allows scammers to gain access to their accounts. The new warning messages explain these tactics and alert users before the linking process is completed.

AI-Driven Scam Detection On Messenger

Messenger will also receive expanded scam detection capabilities powered by artificial intelligence. The system analyzes conversation patterns and identifies potential warning signs, such as suspicious job offers or requests for personal information. If the system detects scam-like behavior, users receive prompts suggesting that they block or report the account. Additional information about common scam techniques may also be displayed to help users better understand the risks.

Progress In Combating Online Fraud

Meta also shared data highlighting the scale of its anti-scam efforts. According to the company, more than 159 million scam advertisements were removed across its platforms over the past year, with 92% blocked before they were reported by users.

The company also removed 10.9 million Facebook and Instagram accounts linked to organized scam networks, reflecting continued investment in automated detection systems designed to disrupt coordinated fraud operations.

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