Martin Lewis warning over celebs most used by scammers – with surprise name at top

Martin Lewis, Taylor Swift and Elon Musk are among the public figures most commonly used by scammers to trick fans, according to MoneySavingExpert.com.

MSE analysed data from Action Fraud to find out which celebrities were most likely to be mentioned in scams reported to police in 2022 and 2023 - and it turns out MSE's founder tops the list.

Stars such as Taylor Swift, Elon Musk, Adele, Holly Willoughby and Jeremy Clarkson also ranked highly on the list, with other notable names in the top 20 including King Charles and Prince Harry.

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Lewis said: "Topping this list is the worst compliment I've ever had". Issuing advice, he added: "If someone is on this list, they’re likely tried and tested by scammers, and therefore will keep reappearing. So, while it’s important to be wary of the potential for all online adverts to be a scam, especially those with celebrity figures – if it has one of these 20, you should double and treble check it’s legit via independent trusted sources before making any contact or commitment.

“And if it’s an ad with me in, it’s always a scam, as I don’t do adverts. Topping this list is about the worst compliment I’ve ever had."

Scammers have reportedly racked up millions by misusing celebrities' identities to convince victims to part with their hard-earned cash. According to Action Fraud, over £20 million has been lost in scams featuring Martin Lewis in the past two years alone.

But the good news is there are signs you can look out for. MSE advises people to watch out for adverts that mention cryptocurrency, investing and promises to get rich quick; watch out for tickets being sold for sold-out events; and watch out for claims a celebrity has been involved in a scandal, as scammers may use fake headlines then take you to an investment scam.

If you believe you have been scammed, information is available on MSE. For help and support, you can also contact Citizens Advice (England and Wales), Citizens Advice Scotland, NIdirect (Northern Ireland), or the Financial Conduct Authority's helpline on 0800 111 6768 (UK-wide).

The top 20 celebrities used in scam adverts, according to MSE analysis

1. Martin Lewis

2. Taylor Swift

3. Elon Musk

4. Adele

5. Holly Willoughby

6. Jeremy Clarkson

7. Mark Zuckerberg

8. Johnny Depp

9. Keanu Reeves

10. Ed Sheeran

11. Peter Jones

12. King Charles

13. Phillip Schofield

14. Richard Branson

15. Rishi Sunak

16. Rod Stewart

17. Simon Cowell

18. Prince Harry

19. Lewis Capaldi

20. James Martin

MSE noted the research includes all mentions, including where more than one person is mentioned, and action Fraud warns some unrelated reports may have been captured and some related reports missed.

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