Beware – Celebrity befriending fraud

Celebrity Befriending Fraud – Keanu Reeves, Gary Barlow, Sandra Bullock, Jennifer Aniston, Raul Malo and many more

Victims across the Humberside area are being impacted financially and emotionally by fraudsters pretending to be celebrities online. These criminals build fake friendships and relationships to gain trust and eventually convince victims to send money or invest in fake opportunities.

Fraudsters often create fake social media profiles using photos and videos of well-known celebrities. They may reply to comments on fan pages asking you to direct message them, or they may contact you directly pretending to want a private conversation.

Over time, the fraudster may fabricate stories, create emotional dependency, isolate victims from family and friends, and manipulate their perception of reality.

Situational vulnerability in fraud is very real. People experiencing stress, loneliness, illness, bereavement, or difficult life events can be more vulnerable to this type of crime.

Remember:

Genuine relationships do not involve secrecy, pressure, or repeated financial requests.

NEVER send money, gift cards, or bank details to someone you have never met in real life.

Be cautious of anyone claiming to be a celebrity contacting you privately online.

Please speak to your family and friends about befriending and romance fraud.

Reporting and Support

If you have been a victim and lost money, call 101 and report it to Humberside Police.

Visit fraudwatch.org.uk for more information about fraud and where to get support.

You can also sign up to receive future alerts at alerts.fraudwatch.org.uk.

You can read the full alert and download some leaflets to share here: https://www.fraudwatch.org.uk/2026/05/28/trigger-fraud-alert-39/.