Simon Leviev, widely known as the Tinder Swindler
from a 2022 Netflix documentary, is planning to launch a new dating platform called Safe Love, which has prompted trade associations to demand app store bans.
Simon Leviev Plans Safe Love After Romance Fraud Notoriety
Across Europe, the convicted fraudster scammed victims out of an estimated $10 million by presenting himself as a wealthy businessman facing dangerous enemies, as detailed in the 2022 Netflix documentary The Tinder Swindler. Born Shimon Yehuda Hayut and later known as Simon Leviev, he gained international attention through the film.
Leviev was sentenced in 2015 to two years behind bars in Finland for defrauding three women. He was also convicted in 2019 of four charges of fraud and sentenced to 15 months in prison, serving five months before his release.
They say I made the dating environment unsafe. So I thought, ‘All right. Let’s make it safe,’
Leviev said in an interview.
Leviev argued during television appearances that his background gives him unique insight into how romance scams operate. He stated that his firsthand experience allows him to design technology capable of stopping similar deceptive behavior.
Safe Love Proposes Identity Verification Rules and Security Features
To prevent false identities, the app would involve identity verification, privacy protection, moderation, financial safeguards and independent oversight. Leviev outlined several security requirements planned for his upcoming platform.
Leviev stated that the platform aims to ensure online profiles match the individuals who show up in person.
Trade Group Urges Apple and Google to Block Safe Love
The Online Dating and Discovery Association (ODDA) publicised a letter asking Apple and Google to refuse to list or immediately remove any dating application founded, operated, or fronted by Leviev.
ODDA chief Simon Newman warned that allowing a convicted romance fraudster to operate within the dating sector would seriously undermine industry efforts to combat fraud. The trade group argued that expertise in manipulation does not translate into safeguarding users and represents a very real risk to women.
Meanwhile, several women featured in the Netflix documentary have pursued fraud prevention independently, including Ayleen Charlotte, who has worked on scam-awareness initiatives. Leviev acknowledged that public trust in him is nonexistent and noted that he will have to prove himself through a product strong enough to secure regulatory approval.
The 35-year-old promoter of the upcoming platform explained his motivations and background to viewers during a televised appearance on September 16, 2026. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists reported on his media statements regarding the new project. He acknowledged to interviewers that he possesses zero public trust and must earn approval by developing a product of high quality.
In a public statement issued to the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, ODDA chief Simon Newman emphasized the necessity of stopping the platform. We believe it should not be allowed to happen, and that action is needed to prevent it,
Newman stated.
His past convictions include a 2015 sentence in Finland. Leviev has maintained that the platform would require proper regulation and official approvals before moving forward. He remarked during his media tour that he recognizes the necessity of building an exceptional product to overcome skepticism.
Will Apple and Google heed the demand from the Online Dating and Discovery Association to block the app?