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A heartbreaking moment at one of Warren Zeiders’ recent meet-and-greets is serving as another reminder that online celebrity scams are still claiming victims.
During a livestreamed autograph session, an elderly fan approached the country singer with a question that suggested she already feared the answer.
“Can I ask you something? I’m not talking to you on anything, am I?”
Zeiders confirmed she wasn’t, and the woman admitted she had “lost a lot of money to these scammers.”
She then asked if she could give Zeiders her phone number so they could talk later, but the singer politely declined. While it was a difficult conversation, it highlighted just how convincing these scams can be.
Unfortunately, fake celebrity accounts continue to target fans across social media, often pretending to be artists or members of their management teams. Scammers typically strike up friendly conversations before asking victims to move to private messaging apps like Telegram, where they eventually request money, gift cards, or other forms of payment.
Even though many fans recognize the warning signs, these scams continue to fool people. Just recently, a 63-year-old Pennsylvania woman reportedly lost an estimated $384,000 after believing she was in an online relationship with an up-and-coming country artist. The scam began on TikTok before moving to Telegram, where the victim spent months sending Apple gift cards before her family discovered what was happening.
Country artists have repeatedly warned fans that they will never privately message them asking for money. Cody Johnson is among the latest stars to remind followers that any account requesting money or claiming to have a “secret” way to communicate is almost certainly fake.
Zeiders’ interaction with the fan was a sad but important reminder that these scammers are professionals who prey on trust and admiration. If someone claiming to be a celebrity contacts you directly, asks you to move the conversation to another app, or requests money in any form, it’s best to block the account and report it.
A little skepticism could save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of heartache.
@donnyclipss DAY 5: NO BRAKES LIVESTREAM. A woman claims she’s having “private” conversations with Warren. If someone is claiming to be Warren or a member of his family, you’re most likely talking to an impostor. Please stay safe, stay sharp, and remain vigilant. #warrenzeiders #nobrakes #twitch #livestreaming ♬ original sound – Donny
