Redazione RHC : 15 September 2025 12:18
In recent years, online scams have taken on increasingly sophisticated forms, exploiting not only social engineering techniques but also the trust that millions of people place in religious, institutional, or charismatic figures.
A prime example is fake social media profiles that use the images of high-ranking prelates or even the Pope to attract the attention of the faithful.
These seemingly harmless profiles often invite people to contact them on WhatsApp or other messaging platforms, providing international phone numbers.
Cybercriminals create a fake profile, like in this case for Pope Leo XIV. Obviously, the real photo of the Pontiff himself is used to lend credibility to the profile.
Then the next step is to build user loyalty. Through religious-themed posts, quotes, images of crosses, or Bibles, the scammer creates an aura of authority that leads people to trust them.
The posts or profile description contain an invitation to private contact.
The posts or bio often contain a WhatsApp number or a link to direct communication channels. This step serves to move the conversation to a less controlled space, away from the eyes of social media platforms.
Once the scammer has attracted attention, they can ask for donations to “charities,” collect personal information, or even convince victims to engage in risky financial transactions.
The most vulnerable people, driven by faith or trust in the religious figure, are more inclined to believe the profile’s authenticity. The Trap of Devotion: Anyone who believes they are speaking to a cardinal or the Pope himself may lower their defenses.
Personal data: even simply sharing your phone number or bank details exposes you to further risks of identity theft and fraud.
Always be wary of profiles that ask to be contacted on WhatsApp or other apps with private numbers.
Remember that prominent institutional figures never communicate directly via private profiles or phone numbers. Personal.
Immediately report suspicious profiles to the platforms.
Never send money or sensitive data to strangers, even if they present themselves as religious or public authorities.
Scammers play with people’s trust, masquerading as religious or institutional figures to legitimize their requests. It is essential to maintain vigilance and raise awareness: faith is a value, but it must never become a trap for digital scammers.
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