Influencer Scams Man as Cancer-Stricken Teen

Authorities are actively searching for Luís Felipe de Oliveira, a 23-year-old Brazilian influencer, who has been charged with online fraud for an alleged catfishing scam. Operating under the social media alias Felipe Heystee, he is accused of impersonating a 19-year-old female student battling cancer to engage in a romantic relationship with a 46-year-old geographer.

The alleged deception lasted over two years, during which the victim, believing he was in a relationship with 'Luana,' sent approximately £29,642 between May 2022 and August 2024. Funds were purportedly used for Luana's medical treatments, overdue rent, and daily expenses. The victim grew suspicious after a single phone call with a female voice and noticing money transfers directed to accounts in Felipe's name.

The scheme began to unravel when the victim conducted a reverse-image search of a photo purportedly of Luana and her mother, discovering it belonged to another influencer. This led him to contact the other girl's parents, who confirmed their daughter did not know Felipe and had her photo used without permission. Felipe has a documented history of virtual scams, leading to his expulsion from a prominent social media community in 2024.

A civil court in Cotia, Brazil, has ordered Felipe to pay £1,432 in damages, though this has not been settled. Pre-trial detention was ordered on March 4, and over £28,640 in Felipe's accounts have been frozen. Prosecutors suspect there may be additional victims. The ordeal has profoundly affected the geographer, who now states he will not pursue future relationships.