The Vatican investigates Instagram "likes" on the pope's account

The Vatican is investigating the use of the papal Instagram account after Pope Francis' official page liked a lively image of a poorly dressed model.

The "liked" photo from Pope Francis' verified account Franciscus shows Brazilian model and Twitch streamer Natalia Garibotto wearing a lingerie suit that resembles a school uniform. In the photo the largely uncovered rear of Garibotto is visible. The exact time of the "like" is unclear, but it was visible and reported on the news on 13 November.

The photograph was not liked on November 14, after the CNA asked for a comment from the Press Office of the Holy See. An official from the Holy See Press Office declined to comment on the event.

Sources close to the Vatican press office confirmed to CNA that the pope's various social media accounts are managed by a team of employees and that an internal investigation is underway to determine how the "like" happened.

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COY Co., Garibotto's advertising and management company, used the papal account for advertising purposes, posting on Friday that the company had "received the POPE'S OFFICIAL BLESSING."

According to Garibotto's social media account, subscribers to his website receive "sexy content, social follow-up, [the ability to] chat directly with me, monthly cash giveaways, signed Polaroids and more!"

Neither Garibotto nor the official account of Pope Francis follow one another on Instagram. Pope Francis' Instagram account does not follow any other accounts.

On Twitter, Garibotto commented “At least I'm going to heaven” and “Brb traveling to the Vatican”. Photos posted on his Instagram account suggest he wasn't actually in the Vatican.