Introduction

In a shocking turn of events, a spokesperson for Hollywood star Brad Pitt has condemned a sophisticated online scam that swindled a 53-year-old French woman, identified only as Anne, out of a staggering $850,000.

Spokesperson's Statement

"It’s awful that scammers take advantage of the strong bond between fans and celebrities,” the spokesperson remarked in a statement shared with Entertainment News. "This situation serves as a crucial reminder for everyone to avoid responding to unsolicited online messages, especially from actors who do not have active social media accounts."

The Scam Unveiled

The story gained traction after being featured on the French current affairs show *Sept à Huit*, broadcasted on the TF1 network. The scam reportedly began in September 2023 when Anne received a seemingly innocent message on Instagram from someone claiming to be Pitt's mother.

This deceiver expertly played the role of a matchmaker, leading Anne to believe she was in communication with Pitt himself. The perpetrator and accomplices constructed fake social media profiles and even utilized AI-generated images to maintain the illusion of authenticity in their correspondence.

Manipulation and Deceit

Anne's entanglement with the scammers lasted over a year, during which they manipulated her emotions; they eventually concocted a harrowing tale in which Pitt required urgent surgery for kidney cancer, claiming that his bank accounts had been seized by his ex-wife, Angelina Jolie. Swayed by these dramatic claims, Anne consequently transferred the massive sum of $850,000 into an account controlled by the scammers.

Discovery and Aftermath

Her realization came too late, sparked by tabloid headlines revealing Pitt’s relationship with Inès de Ramon, prompting her to investigate further. Heartbroken and feeling deceived, she approached the French police, who opened an investigation in the summer of 2023.

Viral Reaction and Mental Health Concerns

The *Sept à Huit* segment detailing her story rapidly went viral, resulting in an overwhelming flood of public reaction, which unfortunately led to Anne facing online harassment. French network BFMTV reported that the distressing events have severely impacted Anne’s mental health, resulting in her hospitalization due to depression.

Conclusion

This incident shines a light on the rampant issue of online impersonation scams, which are reportedly on the rise globally. Experts advise individuals to be vigilant about their online interactions and to seek verification before sharing personal information or monetary assets.

Is your favorite celebrity beyond reach? Think again! As this incident reveals, even the most legendary figures can be exploited by predators lurking in the digital shadows. Stay safe out there!