Woody Cook Targeted by Online Stalker: Police Investigate

Woody Cook, son of Zoe Ball and Fatboy Slim, has disclosed a police investigation into a stalker who has been impersonating him online and sharing intimate details with unsuspecting individuals. The incident involves multiple fake profiles and deeply personal communications.

Impersonation and Police Involvement

The 25-year-old Celebrity Gogglebox star and DJ took to Instagram to denounce the “creepy, immoral, and illegal” behavior. The stalker allegedly created numerous fake profiles using Cook’s identity to engage in personal conversations with others.

Woody Cook reported the stalker to the police, stating the perpetrator has targeted him and others “more than 20 times,” leading to a formal investigation. A spokesperson for Cook confirmed to the Daily Mail that the matter is currently under investigation.

Evidence Shared on Social Media

In a series of Instagram stories, Woody shared screenshots of messages sent by the impersonator. One message read: “Hey man, hope I’m ok to hyu on here. Just been looking at your prints again, super talented! Might have some artwork I’d like done for my festivals this year. Would you be interested? Woody x.”

He captioned the post: “This is not me! Someone is pretending to be me. Please don’t fall for it! Super weird. It’s a stalker (And I will be making a police enquiry because he’s done this to me and other people 20+ times and I’m done being polite).”

Woody Cook’s Background and Advocacy

Woody Cook has established a successful career as a DJ, performing at festivals such as Glastonbury. He also works as a presenter, public speaker, and runs his own record label, Truth Tribe.

Currently a student at Bristol University studying Film and Theatre, Cook is also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental causes. He publicly came out as bisexual on Channel 4’s The Circle in 2019.

The Growing Issue of Online Harassment

This incident highlights the increasing problem of online harassment and the ease with which fake identities can be created to manipulate and exploit others. While catfishing isn’t specifically illegal in the UK, related actions can lead to criminal charges under existing laws.

Recent surveys indicate that 22% of UK adults have experienced catfishing, and over a quarter of dating website users have encountered fake profiles. There are ongoing campaigns to recognize catfishing as a specific criminal offense.

Woody’s case underscores the need for stronger online protections and awareness of the psychological impact of online impersonation. His family’s public profile may have contributed to him being targeted.