Damien Robitaille’s rising popularity on social media has led to a proliferation of fake profiles impersonating him, with hundreds of accounts on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. Many fans have fallen victim to scams, including one woman who lost over $13,000. Robitaille and his manager, Viviane Giguère, are alarmed by the situation, which has even prompted police intervention after a manipulated fan issued a suicide alert. They urge fans to remain vigilant against online impersonators and scams.
The Rise of Fake Profiles Targeting Damien Robitaille’s Fans
Damien Robitaille’s recent surge in popularity on social media has brought with it both benefits and challenges. Over the past five years, the talented singer has faced the unfortunate reality of numerous fake profiles impersonating him on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Regrettably, some fans have fallen victim to these scams.
“I spoke to a lady who had sent over $13,000 to a fake Damien,” shares Viviane Giguère, the singer’s manager, highlighting the serious implications of these impersonations.
Confronting the Dangers of Online Impersonation
A quick glance at social media reveals a staggering number of impersonators claiming to be Damien Robitaille. Recently, a count indicated there are 159 fake profiles on Facebook, along with an astonishing 944 on TikTok. With over a million followers across his platforms, Damien is understandably disheartened by the situation and is eager to inform fans about the risks associated with these scams.
“I notice that these fraudsters often target women who are looking for love or are otherwise vulnerable,” he observes. “I’ve had messages from people seeking assistance because their loved ones have been misled and sent money to these fake accounts. I’ve even sent videos to warn these ladies, but they still didn’t believe me!”
The situation escalated recently when police visited Damien’s home in Beloeil after a woman from North Shore Montreal issued a suicide alert. A fake Damien had manipulated her into believing he would take his life unless she sent him money.
“They were relieved not to have found someone dead,” Damien recounts. “The police mentioned that had I not responded, they would have had to force their way in.”
“It’s becoming quite alarming,” adds Viviane Giguère from the 9th Wave agency. “How far will this go? If Damien ever truly needs help, will anyone believe him?”
Since 2020, Damien has made multiple efforts to alert his fans about the prevalence of fake accounts. He hopes that by sharing his experiences, he can raise awareness about this pressing issue.
“If you receive a message starting with ‘hello dear fan,’ it’s not from me,” warns Damien. “If I say ‘I love you,’ or ask for money, it’s definitely a scam.”
“I just wish people would understand that not everything online is genuine,” concludes Viviane Giguère.