Alert in Peru: Scammers try to profit from the visit of Pope Leo XIV
The Peruvian Episcopal Conference has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding the proliferation of digital scams using the figure of Pope Leo XIV. Various criminals are taking advantage of the anticipation generated by the pontiff’s upcoming visit to the country to fraudulently offer personal meetings, photographs, and blessings in exchange for sums of money.
According to the institution, those responsible for these advertisements are illegally using the Conference’s name, logo, and institutional identity to give an appearance of authenticity to their posts. These deceptive offers solicit deposits and bank transfers from the faithful interested in participating in events that, in reality, do not exist.
Modus operandi of scammers
Advertisements detected on digital platforms promise exclusive benefits with the Holy Father. Among the most common offers are:
- Personalized blessings from Leo XIV.
- Private photo sessions with the pontiff.
- Ten-minute long meetings.
To make the deception more credible, the criminals request payments close to 1,000 soles (approximately 300 dollars) and claim that spots are limited, in order to create urgency among believers.
The Church has not authorized any type of fee to access meetings, photographs, or similar activities during the Pope’s visit. We urge citizens not to make transfers and to verify all information only through our official channels.
Peruvian Episcopal Conference
Preparations for a historic visit
This fraud attempt arises at a time of great national fervor. The Peruvian government has declared the visit of Pope Leo XIV, scheduled for November 11 to 16, to be of national interest. The pontiff, who is remembered in the country for his pastoral work of more than two decades and for having obtained Peruvian nationality in 2015, will visit cities such as Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco, and Pucallpa.
The Peruvian Episcopal Conference reiterates its firm rejection of the use of faith and the image of the Pope to commit illicit acts. In the face of any suspicious offer, ecclesiastical authorities ask the population to remain alert, not to share personal information, and to always consult official sources to avoid becoming victims of these scams.
