Paul Weller warns fans to ignore AI-generated video trying to “scam and defraud fans”
Paul Weller has urged fans to ignore an AI-generated video on social media that is attempting to scam fans.
In light of the fake video which has been doing the rounds on social media platforms, Weller has issued a statement distancing himself from the clip and reminding fans to ignore anybody who is posing to be him online.
The message, which was shared on Weller’s official social media channels on January 27th, began, “There have been recent reports of fake accounts posing as Paul or his management, attempting to scam and defraud fans.”
It continued, “We are also aware of an AI-generated video that falsely claims to be Paul, circulating online, asking fans for money to join a fan club.”
To clear things up further, the message added, “For the avoidance of doubt, Paul will never message fans directly.”
The statement concluded by reminding followers that his only official handles on X, Instagram and YouTube are PaulWellerHQ; meanwhile, his official Facebook page is PaulWellerOfficial.
Weller is not the only prominent artist who has been forced to release a public statement in recent weeks in response to accounts attempting to defraud their fans on social media.
Earlier this month, Tom Jones’ management posted the following statement on his behalf, “Regrettably, it has come to our attention there are many fake online profiles impersonating Sir Tom Jones and / or his team, who are attempting to scam fans and members of the public.”
The message also told fans that Jones won’t directly contact any of his followers on social media, encouraging them to block and report anyone posing as the Welsh singer.
The warning to fans concluded, “It is sad and disheartening to hear of these scammers attempting to trap and abuse vulnerable people, so please be careful and stay safe online.”
This summer, Weller will be taking to outdoor venues across the UK, which will take him across the country and kick off at the Open Air Theatre in Scarborough on June 12th. He will be joined by Miles Kane for the run, as well as the likes of Fiona-Lee and Amelia Coburn at select dates.
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