Tinder 'swindler' Simon Leviev arrested in Georgia at Interpol’s request

Israeli fraudster Simon Leviev, widely known as the “Tinder Swindler” and subject of the hit 2022 Netflix documentary of the same name, has been arrested in Georgia, officials confirmed on Monday.

The 34-year-old, whose real name is Shimon Yehuda Hayut, was detained at Batumi airport in south-west Georgia after arriving in the country. The arrest followed a request from Interpol, Georgia’s interior ministry said.

Background of Infamy

Leviev gained global notoriety after the Netflix documentary revealed how he posed as the heir of a diamond magnate on the dating app Tinder, conning women out of an estimated $10 million (£7.4m) between 2017 and 2019.

He wooed victims with luxury hotels, private jets, and extravagant gifts, before claiming he was being pursued by “enemies” and urgently needed money. Many women lent him vast sums, which he never repaid.

One of his most high-profile victims, Cecilie Fjellhøy, said she gave him more than $270,000 during their relationship. Others, including Iren Tranov, have also launched lawsuits against him in Israel.

Previous Convictions and Denials

In 2019, Leviev was convicted of four charges of fraud in a separate case and sentenced to 15 months in prison. He served only five months before being released.

Despite his notoriety, Leviev has consistently denied wrongdoing, claiming the documentary was biased and painting him as a victim.
His lawyer told Israel’s Ynet that Leviev had been “traveling freely around the world” until his detention, adding:

“I spoke with him this morning after he was detained, but we don’t yet understand the reason.”

Allegations of Abuse

Beyond financial crimes, Leviev has also faced allegations of emotional and physical abuse. His former girlfriend, Kate Konlin, told the BBC in 2023 that he once pushed her during an argument, causing her to cut her foot. Leviev has denied ever physically harming women.

Global Impact

The Tinder Swindler documentary became Netflix’s most-watched film in 90 countries upon its release in February 2022, turning Leviev into one of the world’s most infamous con artists.

Next Steps

Authorities in Georgia have not yet disclosed the specific grounds for Leviev’s arrest, or whether he will be extradited. However, his detention marks the latest chapter in a saga that continues to grip international attention.