Japan
In Japan, Meta’s Facebook, Instagram and Threads are designated as large-scale platforms under the Information Distribution Platform Act (in force since 1 April 2025), which requires systems for handling removal requests and transparency about how they operate. Prefectural police have published warnings about takeover methods that trick users into sharing verification codes.
As of 2026-10-26
Regulators and public bodies
soumu.go.jp
Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications designated Meta (Facebook, Instagram and Threads) as a large-scale specified telecommunications service provider under Article 20(1) of the Act, on the same day as Google, LINE Yahoo, TikTok and X. Designated providers must set up systems for handling removal requests and be transparent about how they operate.
インターネット上の違法・有害情報に対する対応 [Responses to illegal and harmful information online] (opens in a new tab)
soumu.go.jp
The ministry’s page on illegal and harmful information online points to the Illegal and Harmful Information Consultation Center (ihaho.jp), a ministry-supported service that takes enquiries through a web form only.
Scam warnings
pref.yamaguchi.lg.jp
Yamaguchi police warn of a method in which an account you follow sends a direct message asking for help with an ‘ambassador vote’ in order to obtain your verification code.
police.pref.toyama.jp
If an account is taken over, Toyama police advise changing the password, logging out unfamiliar devices, contacting the service operator and reporting to the police.
Please note
This page collects public material as general information. It is not legal advice. Bodies and procedures change, so check the original link before you apply.
For step-by-step official procedures, see the recovery guide.