Facebook has warned that its profitability will be hit by investments in securing it from abuse after it was home to Russian attempts to manipulate US politics, as it trounced earnings expectations in the third quarter.

Mark Zuckerberg, founder and chief executive, said the goal of “protecting our community is more important than maximising profits”.

Facebook estimates costs will rise 45 to 60 per cent next year, hitting margins as revenue growth is due to slow.

“Our community continues to grow and our business is doing well,” said Mr Zuckerberg. “But none of that matters if our services are used in ways that don’t bring people closer together.”

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