Uncategorized
Johnny Depp Warns Fans of Online Scams Using His Likeness: “It’s a Dangerous Illusion”
07
Jan
Jan
Johnny Depp is starting the new year by sounding the alarm on a wave of online scams that have been targeting his fans and draining their bank accounts.
In a candid Instagram post, the actor behind iconic roles like Jack Sparrow and Edward Scissorhands wished his followers a happy New Year before delivering a sobering message about fraudulent impersonation schemes.
“Sadly, it has been brought to my attention that online scammers are intensifying their efforts to target my fans and supporters,” Depp wrote. “As part of their tactics, they create multiple, deceptive social media and email accounts impersonating me and members of my team.”
AI-Driven Scams Are on the Rise
Depp specifically warned that advancements in AI technology have made it easier for scammers to create realistic deepfakes that mimic his voice and appearance, making the fraudulent schemes even more convincing. “Today, AI can create the illusion of my face and voice,” he explained. “Scammers may look and sound just like the real me. But, neither I, nor my team, will ask you for money or your personal information. We are actively working to combat these illicit schemes.” The Pirates of the Caribbean star stressed that he does not offer paid meetings, phone calls, club memberships, or fan cards and clarified that his only official social media accounts are on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. “I do not use Snapchat, Discord, or X (formerly Twitter),” Depp said, adding that he never reaches out directly to fans on email, messaging apps, or chat-based platforms.Fans Have Lost Thousands to Scammers
Depp’s warning comes on the heels of a Gizmodo report detailing how victims across the United States have lost hundreds of thousands of dollars to these scams. Through a FOIA request to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the outlet obtained 197 complaints from victims who were contacted by scammers posing as Depp. The report revealed that fraudsters typically initiate contact through platforms like Facebook before moving conversations to encrypted messaging apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, or Zangi. Victims were then asked to send money through Coinbase, Bitcoin ATMs, Zelle, PayPal, and even gift cards. One victim reportedly lost $350,000, with others losing substantial amounts as well.Depp Joins Other Celebrities in Raising Awareness
Depp isn’t the only celebrity to warn fans about identity theft scams. Recently, Tom Hanks, Whoopi Goldberg, and Brad Pitt have all spoken out about deepfake and impersonation scams using their likenesses. Hanks even took to Instagram last year to alert fans that an AI-generated version of his likeness was being used in an unauthorized commercial without his consent. Depp, who previously issued a similar warning in June 2022, emphasized that his focus is on protecting his fans. “For the protection and awareness of my fans,” he said, “neither I nor my team or family will ever contact you asking for money or personal information. If you’re asked, it’s a scam.”
What Can Fans Do?
Seattle Kraken x 2025 Pride Night Premium Personalized Hockey JerseyDepp encouraged his fans to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity. With AI and deepfake technology advancing, the risk of online impersonation scams will likely continue to grow. Depp’s warning serves as a reminder to fans to be cautious and to always verify the legitimacy of online interactions — especially when money is involved. As Depp said in his heartfelt message: “Awareness is our best defense.”
