Romance scammer launches ‘safe’ dating app using tactics from his own conman playbook
Simon Leviev, widely recognized as the “Tinder Swindler,” is preparing to launch a new dating application, Safe Love, which aims to mitigate the prevalent risks associated with online dating. Leviev, whose real name is Shimon Yehuda Hayut, has a controversial past steeped in fraud; from 2015 to 2019, he was convicted multiple times in Israel and Finland for various charges including fraud, theft, and forgery. His notoriety stems from elaborate scams that targeted women he met on dating platforms, ultimately leading to significant financial exploitation.
In an ironic twist, Leviev claims that his extensive experience as a fraudster has equipped him with unique insights to prevent similar scams on his app. He acknowledges that he used fake identities and false documentation in the past, but now positions himself as an expert in safeguarding others from such deceit. “I know how fake passports look,” he asserts, underscoring his belief that this knowledge will help him develop a secure online dating environment.
The Safe Love app is designed to implement stricter identification protocols than many of its competitors. Users will be required to upload a government-issued identification card along with a selfie that must resemble their uploaded profile pictures within a margin of 15%. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that individuals appearing in online profiles match those who show up for in-person dates. Furthermore, to enhance user safety, the app will incorporate an SOS feature, allowing users to alert authorities and record audio and video in potentially dangerous situations.
Despite the potential benefits of this app, Leviev faces significant backlash from organizations advocating for safe online dating practices. The Online Dating and Discovery Association (ODDA) has formally opposed his venture and urged major tech companies such as Google and Apple to block the app from their stores, citing concerns over the risks associated with allowing a convicted fraudster to operate a platform centered on trust.
Undeterred by the controversy, Leviev believes that his app’s superior safety features will appeal to users seeking a secure online dating experience. He is currently in the regulatory phase before launching Safe Love, and insists that he is committed to ensuring that his application operates flawlessly from the outset.
As he navigates this complex landscape of redemption and skepticism, Leviev emphasizes that while his history is indeed troubling, people have the capacity to change and grow. His endeavor to create a safer space for online romance raises both ethical concerns and a pressing question: can one truly reform from a past rooted in deception?
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