James Hetfield of Metallica used the band's social media to warn fans about fake profiles being created in his name.
The text published by the vocalist says: “There are people online who have assumed my identity, spreading misinformation and causing harm to others. There are imposters and predators out there. This is beyond my control, but it is in your control who you choose to connect with. Please be careful on social media and check people before contacting them.”
Hetfield took the opportunity to make it clear that he does not have a profile on any social network under his name: "The only connection I have with social media is through the official Metallica website and the official Metallica social media accounts."
He continues: “If you are following or communicating with someone who is portraying themselves as me… that’s not me. I hope this helps those who have been or are being deceived and are ashamed to speak about it.”
Hetfield left Instagram in 2016, where he had a verified profile under his name. During an interview with The Canadian Press (via Blabbermouth ), he explained that he didn't feel good while trying to keep his social media updated and that's why he left. “I was just trying to be cool… I thought to myself, ‘I’m here, I can take a picture, post it and get likes and lots of followers.’ It was sucking up my time and then I started neglecting my personal life,” he revealed.