Fake Brad Pitt scam allegedly defrauds women of over $350K in online scheme, leads to multiple arrests
MADRID, SPAIN: Brad Pitt's representative has spoken out following the arrest of scammers who allegedly posed as the actor to defraud women on social media.
Pitt, 60, who has no official social media accounts, issued a warning through his representative on Wednesday, September 25, advising fans to be vigilant.
Brad Pitt's advice for fans after scam
Addressing the scam, Brad Pitt's statement through his representative read, "It’s awful that scammers take advantage of fans’ strong connection with celebrities."
"This is an important reminder to not respond to unsolicited online outreach, especially from actors who have no social media presence," the statement added, according to People.
Five arrested in Spain for posing as Brad Pitt in massive online fraud
Spain's Ministry of the Interior revealed on Monday, September 23, that five individuals had been taken into custody, and others are under investigation for their involvement in a criminal organization accused of defrauding over $350,000 from two women online.
Authorities revealed that the scammers pretended to be Pitt, targeting his fans and luring them with promises of future romantic relationships.
The Ministry outlined in a press release how the fraudsters used social media to communicate with the victims by building trust before asking them to invest in various fake projects.
The victims were reportedly manipulated into believing they were in a genuine relationship with the actor.
Scammers' emotional manipulation and financial deception
Authorities stated that the scammers used various platforms, including WhatsApp and email, to impersonate Brad Pitt, sending romantic messages designed to win the victims' affection.
One letter, discovered during a search of the criminals’ property, read, "My love for you is true. Feeling from my heart and forever, please forgive me and accept me … it is because I love you and am very much in love with you,” according to The Times of London.
Once they were emotionally convinced of Pitt’s love, the scammers suggested they invest in false projects, leading the victims to transfer large sums of money.
Police have managed to recover approximately $95,000 on behalf of the victims so far.
Arrests and charges in fake Brad Pitt scam case
The investigation led to the arrest of three suspects in November 2023, with two more arrested in July.
The charges against the scammers include fraud, money laundering, and forgery.
Spanish authorities are continuing to investigate others involved in the online scheme.
Previously, high-profile figures such as Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Hanks, and Johnny Depp have also warned their fans of impersonators soliciting money on social media.
