Selena Gomez exposes scammer impersonating Jake T. Austin after fraud attempt

Gomez shared a scammer’s number on Instagram after they pretended to call as her 'Wizards of Waverly Place' co-star

Selena Gomez has revealed she was targeted by an online scammer impersonating her former Wizards of Waverly Place co-star Jake T. Austin.

The incident unfolded early Thursday when Gomez shared the fraudster’s phone number, registered in southern New Jersey, on her Instagram Stories. The imposter seemingly fabricated a crisis to exploit Gomez’s loyalty and emotional connection to Austin.

“Taking advantage of me and my love for my friends… enjoy that person’s number. When Jake T. Austin is in trouble, I need to hear from him and him only,” Gomez wrote, warning fans about the scam. 

Photo: Reddit

Online users investigated the phone number Gomez shared and linked it to a “Paul Caruso.” Some pointed out that Austin had previously mentioned working with someone with a similar name in a June Instagram post.

“Excited to announce after so many years in front of the camera, I have co-written my first feature with my good friend Paulie Caruso,” he wrote, describing their shared passion for filmmaking and collaboration.

It remains unclear whether the individual involved in the scam is related to Austin’s acquaintance, though the coincidence prompted speculation among fans.

Gomez’s quick response serves as a reminder of the growing threat of online impersonation targeting public figures.