Brazilian Influencer Wanted by Interpol for Romance Scam Targeting Geographic Professional

Overview of the Romance Scam Case

Brazilian social media influencer Luís Felipe de Oliveira, known as Felipe Heystee (age 23), is currently on Interpol's Red Notice list for romance scam allegations. After prosecutors in Cotia, São Paulo state filed for his arrest on March 2, 2026, he boarded a flight to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic within approximately 24 hours and has been missing since. Interpol added his name to the Red Notice list in July 2026.

How the Scam Operated

The victim, a 46-year-old geographer, was contacted through a dating application by someone using the fake profile "Luana," described as a 19-year-old woman with suspected cancer.

The progression of the scheme:

• Initial contact begins with offers of collectible items or goods
• The interaction develops into a virtual romantic relationship
• Requests for money become frequent, citing various justifications:
  • Medical expenses related to her supposed health condition
  • Emergency financial assistance
  • Upfront payments for antique sales

Over approximately two years, the victim made multiple transfers totaling around 207,000 Brazilian reals (approximately 500 million yen equivalent).

How the Scam Was Discovered

The victim became suspicious when deposits were transferred to bank accounts registered under Felipe de Oliveira's name rather than the fake "Luana" profile. Further investigation by contacting relatives of the individuals whose images appeared in the fake profile revealed they had no connection to the influencer.

The Suspect's Background

Prior to the scam allegations, Felipe had built a following on TikTok and Instagram through humorous content. He had established connections with other internet personalities and participated in a reality show called "Rancho do Maia" hosted by fellow influencer Carlinhos Maia in 2024, where he was expelled after a physical altercation. Publicly, he had shared narratives about his difficult financial background, including his mother's substance abuse issues and his responsibility for raising a younger brother.

Warning Signs of Romance Scams

• Rapid emotional escalation in a relationship beginning on dating apps
• Constant postponement of in-person meetings
• Escalating requests for money with varying justifications
• Deposits made to accounts under a different name than the person you're communicating with
• Reverse image searches reveal the profile photos belong to other people
• Reasons for financial requests continue to change

Prevention Strategies

• Identity Verification: Always conduct video calls with people you meet through dating apps before developing emotional attachments
• Financial Caution: Never send money to people you haven't met in person, particularly through bank transfers which are difficult to recover
• Photo Verification: Use reverse image search on profile photos to check if they appear in multiple unrelated profiles
• Seek Advice: If someone asks for significant money, discuss it with trusted friends or family members
• Protect Personal Information: Never provide banking information, national ID numbers, or other sensitive data even if requested

Reporting Resources

For Romance Scam Victims:

• Local law enforcement agencies
• National cybercrime reporting centers
• Dating app customer support teams
• Interpol (for international cases)
• Your country's consumer protection agency