Fake ads featuring celebrities
Summary
Why is this warning issued?
This warning has been included because it is based on a notice from BaFin – Consumer Warnings. It is intended to protect other users from this scam method. The assessed risk is elevated.
How the scam works
- Consumers see an advertisement on social networks or websites that uses the image of a well-known person to promote a supposedly lucrative investment or free shares
- Clicking on the ad leads to a landing page or directly to a chat contact
- Unknown individuals make contact via WhatsApp or Telegram and pose as alleged advisors or brokers
- High profits, quick returns, or free shares are promised in order to build trust
- The perpetrators attempt step by step to obtain personal data and ultimately payments for alleged investments or 'activations'
- Once payment is made, follow-up demands often follow or contact breaks off – the money is usually lost
How to recognise it
- Advertisements on social media in which images of celebrities are used to promote investments without their consent
- Promises of 'free shares' or unusually high returns
- Contact being made or redirected to messenger services such as WhatsApp or Telegram instead of through official, verified channels
- Providers are not registered or authorized as financial or securities services providers with BaFin
- Pressure tactics, demands for quick decisions, or references to allegedly limited spots
- Requests to disclose personal data, ID copies, or banking information via messenger
- Alleged celebrity recommendation for an investment
- Replicated news portal
How to protect yourself
- Treat advertisements featuring celebrities promoting investments with fundamental skepticism – celebrity images are often misused without the person's knowledge
- Before investing, check the BaFin company database to see whether the provider has authorization
- Do not share personal data, ID copies, or banking information via messenger services
- Preserve screenshots of the ads and chat history as evidence and inform the consumer advice center and, in case of damage, the police
- Report payments already made to your bank immediately and have them check whether a chargeback is possible
What you should never do
- Do not click on dubious advertisements featuring celebrity images and do not respond to contact on messenger services
- Do not transfer money to unknown providers – not even smaller amounts for alleged activations or fees
- Do not send ID documents, account information, or login credentials via WhatsApp, Telegram, or similar services
Frequently asked questions
Will I really receive free shares as promised in the ad?
Usually no. The promise only serves as bait. As soon as you are asked to disclose personal data or pay a 'fee', it is a typical lure offer.
What should I do if I have already transferred money?
Contact your bank immediately and describe the case in order to check possible chargebacks. Also file a report with the police and contact your consumer advice center.
Where did the fraudsters get my phone number or my data?
Data leaks, publicly accessible profiles on social networks, or purchased address lists are common sources. A specific attribution is usually not possible for those affected.
Is the provider legitimate just because a well-known person advertises for it?
No. Images of celebrities are regularly used in fraudulent advertisements without their consent. The appearance of a prominent person is no proof of legitimacy.
Who can I contact if I have suspicions?
For an initial assessment, contact your local consumer advice center. If you have already suffered financial damage, also contact the police. General information is also available from BaFin.
Affected data
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Original source
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BaFin – Verbraucherwarnungen ↗Update history
- 23/07/2026Description updated, Characteristics added