Scammers Impersonate Brad Pitt, Defraud Women of Over $350,000

Scammers Impersonate Brad Pitt, Defraud Women of Over $350,000


Spanish authorities have arrested five individuals this year on charges of fraud and money laundering after they allegedly impersonated Brad Pitt online. The arrests were announced by Spain’s Interior Ministry on September 23. Three scammers were apprehended in November, while two additional suspects were taken into custody in July.

According to reports, the scammers contacted two women through an online fan page dedicated to the Oscar-winning actor. They posed as Pitt, engaging in conversations through instant messages and emails, leading the victims to believe they were in a romantic relationship with him.

The scammers then requested money, with one woman sending approximately $168,000 and another sending around $195,500. So far, only $94,000 has been recovered in the investigation.

Matthew Hiltzik, Pitt’s publicist, expressed concern about the situation, stating, “It’s awful that scammers take advantage of fans’ strong connection with celebrities.” He urged fans to avoid responding to unsolicited online messages, especially from actors who do not have social media profiles. Notably, Brad Pitt remains offline and does not maintain official accounts on platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).