A notorious international con artist known as the “Tinder Swindler” has been arrested in Georgia. Simon Leviev, whose real name is Shimon Yehuda Hayut, was taken into custody at Batumi airport in the country’s southwest following a request from Interpol. Authorities are yet to reveal the exact reason for his arrest, but his past criminal history and global notoriety suggest it may be linked to ongoing investigations.
Leviev, 34, became infamous worldwide after his elaborate romance scams were exposed. Between 2017 and 2019, he posed as the heir to a wealthy diamond fortune, using dating platforms to lure women into relationships. By presenting an extravagant lifestyle filled with private jets, luxury holidays, and lavish gifts, he gained the trust of unsuspecting victims before manipulating them into handing over large sums of money.
His strategy often involved convincing women that he was under threat from supposed “enemies” and urgently needed financial help. Many victims reported transferring significant amounts, only to be abandoned when contact was abruptly cut off. It is estimated that his schemes defrauded women of over $10 million globally.
One victim revealed she gave him more than $270,000 over the course of their relationship, while another pursued a lawsuit after lending him more than 144,000 shekels, which was never repaid. Despite these accusations, Leviev has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
This is not his first encounter with the law. In 2019, he was convicted on multiple fraud charges in a separate case and sentenced to 15 months in prison. However, he served only five months before being released, after which he continued to travel internationally.
Beyond financial deception, Leviev has also faced disturbing personal allegations. A former girlfriend accused him of emotional and physical abuse, claiming that during an argument he pushed her, causing an injury that required hospital treatment. Leviev, however, has rejected all claims of violence, insisting he never harmed any woman.
The arrest in Georgia may signal a new chapter in ongoing efforts to bring him to justice. For years, his ability to exploit loopholes and maintain a lavish public image has frustrated both victims and authorities. As the case develops, his detention raises questions about accountability for online romance fraud and the global challenge of tracking digital-age con artists.
