Former soccer player Adriano Imperador denounced on social media a scam that victimized his mother, Rosilda Ribeiro, resulting in a loss of over R$15,000. He warned followers about the fraud involving a fake WhatsApp number and issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the criminal to return the money. Adriano vowed to pursue the perpetrator, stressing that family is off-limits.
On the afternoon of January 26, 2026, Adriano Imperador, former striker for the Brazilian national team, posted a video on his Instagram Stories warning about a scam that affected his mother, Rosilda Ribeiro. According to him, criminals impersonated Adriano using a fake WhatsApp number, tricking her into depositing over R$15,000 into a bank account via Pix.
"She just deposited 15 thousand (reais) and a bit into an account pretending to be me. So folks, don't make (transfers), because I haven't changed my number," the former player said in the video, advising friends and relatives to ignore similar messages. The scam, known as the 'new number scam,' involves cloning profiles to request transfers from close contacts, often claiming the old number leaked online.
Outraged, Adriano issued an ultimatum to the scammer: "You bastard, got it? It's better you return it, man, because I'm coming after you. Don't mess with mom, grandma, or family. I'm warning you: if you don't return it, you'll see if I won't find out who you are. This is Adriano speaking." He gave 24 hours for the return and warned his followers: "But folks, be careful. There are a bunch of bastards out there messing with family, and it's different. Then you'll see the devil on Earth."
As of now, no police report has been filed, but Adriano indicated he may take legal action in the coming days. The incident underscores the growing risks of digital fraud in Brazil, particularly with instant payments like Pix.
