Brad Pitt Issues ‘Warning’ After Woman is Targeted by Crook with Fake Pics of Him

Brad Pitt has broken his silence about a shocking scam that swindled a 53-year-old French woman out of $850,000 by an impersonator pretending to be the actor. Pitt called the scheme “awful” and a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in online interactions.

The story, revealed on France’s TF1 program Sept à Huit, sheds light on a year-long deception. Anne, an interior decorator, shared her harrowing experience, detailing how the scam began innocently but spiraled into a financial and emotional nightmare.

The Deception Unfolds

Anne, a mother vacationing in the French Alps, downloaded Instagram to share her ski trip with her children. A supposed “mother of Brad Pitt” reached out, suggesting Anne’s empathy could help her “troubled son.” From there, the scam evolved into a fake romance.

Anne explained, “The messages were heartfelt. He knew how to talk to women. The photos seemed real.” The scammer sent AI-generated images and compelling messages, building trust and affection.

Eventually, the impersonator requested money, citing an urgent need for $1 million for a kidney treatment. Anne, recently divorced and with access to settlement funds, believed she was helping Pitt through a difficult time.

Emotional and Financial Devastation

“He said his divorce left him unable to access his bank accounts,” Anne recounted. “I thought I was helping someone in need.”

The scam unraveled after Pitt publicly confirmed his relationship with jewelry designer Ines de Ramon at the Venice Film Festival. It was then Anne realized she’d been duped.

Pitt’s Response

Brad Pitt’s spokesperson issued a statement condemning the scam: “It’s heartbreaking that scammers exploit the bond between celebrities and their fans. This incident is a reminder to avoid unsolicited online messages, especially from accounts pretending to be public figures.”

Pitt’s fans have rallied behind Anne, but the online backlash has been severe. Social media users mocked her vulnerability, forcing TF1 to remove the segment from its platforms.

A Broader Issue

Anne’s story is not unique. Last year, a similar scam in Spain defrauded two women of 325,000 euros by a group posing as Brad Pitt. Experts warn these cons are becoming increasingly sophisticated, leveraging technology to prey on emotions.

“These criminals are professionals,” said cybersecurity expert Jacques Dubois. “They use AI and psychological tactics to manipulate victims.”

Anne Speaks Out

Despite the humiliation, Anne wants her story to be a cautionary tale. “I’ve never cheated on my husband. I’m not crazy. I just wanted to help someone,” she told Le Figaro. “I came forward because others might be in the same situation. This could happen to anyone.”

Anne’s bravery in sharing her story highlights the importance of vigilance online. It’s a reminder that even the most convincing personas can be fabrications. As Pitt’s spokesperson emphasized, “Stay cautious and protect yourselves from these predators.”