How did a sophisticated AI scam using fake images and messages of Brad Pitt lead to a French woman losing €830,000? The elaborate scheme, which began in February 2023, used artificial intelligence to create convincing photos and messages that appeared to be from the Hollywood star.
The scam started when someone claiming to be “Jane Etta Pitt,” Brad’s mother, contacted the victim online. Over time, the scammers built a fake romantic relationship between the woman and who she believed was Brad Pitt. They sent AI-generated photos, love poems, and romantic messages that seemed to match Pitt’s writing style.
The scammers created an intricate story, claiming Angelina Jolie had frozen Pitt’s bank accounts. They also fabricated a kidney cancer diagnosis, complete with fake doctor confirmations and deepfake hospital photos. The victim’s emotional distress led to hospitalization for depression. These deceptions led the victim to send money for supposed medical treatments and luxury items over the course of a year.
The technology behind the scam was highly sophisticated. The criminals used AI tools to create realistic deepfake images of Pitt, generate convincing text messages, and possibly even clone his voice for phone conversations. The victim’s limited experience with social media made her particularly vulnerable to these high-tech deceptions. Despite family warnings, she continued to believe in the authenticity of the relationship.
During this period, the French woman’s personal life changed dramatically. She divorced her husband while believing she was in a genuine relationship with Brad Pitt. The truth only came to light when she saw news coverage of Pitt with his actual girlfriend, Ines de Ramon.
After the scam was exposed, Brad Pitt’s spokesperson issued a statement condemning the scammers for exploiting fan connections. The actor warned fans about responding to unsolicited messages claiming to be from him.
The victim filed a police report, and the case has raised awareness about the growing threat of AI-powered celebrity impersonation scams, which can now create remarkably convincing fake content.
