Woman Duped Of $800k By AI-Generated Brad Pitt Scam

A heartbreaking story has emerged of a French woman who fell victim to an elaborate scam involving an AI-generated version of Hollywood actor Brad Pitt. The woman, identified as Anne, was tricked out of €830,000 by fraudsters who preyed on her emotions and desire for connection.

The Costly Illusion of Love

Anne, a 53-year-old interior designer, believed she was in a genuine relationship with Brad Pitt. Convinced by the scammers’ claims, she divorced her husband and handed over nearly all of her €775,000 divorce settlement. The fake Brad Pitt assured her the funds were needed for cancer treatment amidst a messy divorce from Angelina Jolie.

Anne’s dream of love turned into a nightmare when she saw photos of the real Brad Pitt with his new girlfriend. Devastated and realizing the truth, she has since filed a legal complaint for fraud and started a crowdfunding campaign to manage her growing legal expenses.

How the Scam Began

The deception started in February 2023 after Anne created an Instagram account to share photos from her skiing trip in the Alps. A woman posing as Brad Pitt’s mother, “Jane Etta Pitt,” messaged Anne, stating, “My son needs a woman like you.” Soon after, the “son” himself contacted Anne, initiating what would become a dangerous online romance.

Anne admitted she was initially skeptical, saying, “It’s Brad Pitt; I couldn’t believe it. But I didn’t really understand what was happening to me.” Yet, the scammers were convincing, and their daily exchanges quickly grew into what Anne thought was a real connection.

AI-Generated Proof

When Anne asked for evidence of Brad Pitt’s identity, the scammers shared photos of a fake passport, fabricated messages from supposed close contacts, and AI-generated images and videos. Anne believed these personalized pictures were created just for her.

From Romance to Financial Ruin

Over the next 18 months, the fake Brad Pitt sent Anne poems, heartfelt messages, and even a marriage proposal. Anne, feeling valued in ways her ex-husband hadn’t made her feel, was swept off her feet.

The scammers took things further, claiming that Brad had sent her expensive gifts, which she could only claim by paying €9,000 in customs fees. They also fabricated a story about his battle with kidney cancer, asking Anne for €60,000 for treatment. Believing she was saving a life, Anne transferred the money.

Red Flags and Mounting Doubts

Despite warnings from her family and friends, Anne was convinced of her relationship’s authenticity. She dismissed their concerns, saying, “You’ll see when he’s here; then you’ll apologize.”

However, in mid-2024, Anne’s faith began to crumble when real-life photos of Brad Pitt with Inès de Ramon surfaced. Even then, the scammers attempted to manipulate her with a fake news alert denying the actor’s new relationship and affirming his supposed connection with Anne.

The situation worsened when someone claiming to be an FBI agent offered to help her escape the scam—for €5,000. In desperation, Anne sent the money, further deepening her financial woes.

The Emotional Toll

The scam left Anne emotionally and financially devastated. She sold all her belongings, moved in with a friend, and even attempted suicide three times. She is now receiving treatment at a clinic for depression while fighting for justice.

Unfortunately, Anne’s case isn’t unique. In 2023, five individuals in Spain were arrested for defrauding women using similar methods, posing as Brad Pitt and exploiting vulnerable victims.

A Lesson for Everyone

Anne’s ordeal is a sobering reminder of the dangers lurking online. Scammers are increasingly using advanced technologies, including AI, to exploit emotional vulnerabilities. Her story highlights the need for caution and vigilance in online interactions, especially with strangers claiming to be celebrities or public figures.

By sharing her experience, Anne hopes to warn others and prevent them from falling victim to such sophisticated schemes.

Meta Description: A French woman lost $800k to an AI-generated Brad Pitt scam. Learn how this elaborate online fraud unfolded and the lessons it offers to protect yourself.

Conclusion:
Stay safe online by being cautious about unsolicited connections, especially those involving money or personal information. If something feels too good to be true, it probably is.

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