A representative for Brad Pitt has responded to reports of scammers arrested for impersonating the actor online and defrauding women of more than $350,000.
The spokesperson for the 60-year-old Oscar winner told PEOPLE on September 25, “It’s awful that scammers take advantage of fans’ strong connection with celebrities, and this is an important reminder to not respond to unsolicited online outreach, especially from actors who have no social media presence.”
Spain’s Ministry of the Interior announced on September 23 that five individuals were arrested and others are under investigation in connection with a “criminal organization” that allegedly targeted Pitt’s fans online. The scammers reportedly posed as the actor, promising romantic relationships to build trust before soliciting money for supposed joint investment projects.
Authorities arrested three suspects in November and two more in July, charging them with fraud, money laundering, and forgery. The scam reportedly victimized at least two women.
This incident is part of a broader trend of celebrity impersonation scams on social media. Other high-profile figures, including Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Hanks, and Johnny Depp, have previously warned fans about fraudulent accounts claiming to be them.
In August, actress Florence Pugh, 28, addressed similar concerns on Instagram, reminding followers that she has no private accounts and warning of scammers asking for money or personal information.
