Bret Michaels is a victim of internet fraud but he isn't the actual money-losing victim. He just appears to be the perpetrator.
Someone is creating social media pages in Michael's name, gathering fan's names and e-mail addresses, and asking them for their bank details in one of those classic bank transfer schemes. The thing is, like so many of these stories, the requests are filled with poor grammar and misspellings, including Michaels' name.
Bret's people have issued a statement saying:
To all of our friends and fans,
It has come to our attention that someone is online saying they are Bret Michaels and that they need help transferring a large sum of money. They are creating numerous fraudulent Facebook profiles, watching who comments on Bret's real Facebook page and then reaching out and starting a conversation.
They are asking that you do not share the phone number they give you, bring this to management's attention or tell anyone about their texts to you as they need the information to be confidential.
They have also been known to text people who have phone numbers listed in their "about me" sections.
We implore you to please be vigilant and not fall for these peoples lies. Please do not give out your address, phone numbers or any banking information to these individuals. If they message you through Facebook, please report the page.
We bring this public service announcement to you for the safety of you the Bret Michaels fan. Bret Michaels nor anyone from MEGI will never ever ask you or solicit for you to send them money.
What to look for –
1) Pages that have Bret's name spelled wrong by one letter.
2) Pages that include poor grammar and numerous misspellings.
3) Texts or messages that include poor grammar, bible verses and various demands.
– Team Bret