Spanish authorities have arrested five individuals for defrauding two women of over $350,000 by impersonating Brad Pitt online. The arrests, three in November and two in July, were part of a complex scheme by a criminal organization. The scammers posed as Pitt on a fan page, engaging the victims in messages and emails, leading them to believe in a romantic relationship and soliciting money. One victim sent €150,000 and the other €175,000. €85,000 has been recovered. The suspects face charges of fraud and money laundering. Brad Pitt's publicist emphasized that Pitt has no social media accounts and warned against responding to unsolicited online messages. Online fraud is a growing threat, with millions falling victim in the EU in 2023, according to a report by the bloc's law enforcement agency. Interpol's secretary general highlighted the rise of financial fraud as an epidemic.