Australian man, 70, loses $180,000 to deepfake lover with six fingers

A retired psychologist in his 70s, identified only as Michael, has lost $180,000 after falling victim to a sophisticated online romance scam. Believing he had found his soulmate in a woman named Melanie, a nurse from South Africa, Michael continued their year-long long-distance courtship, even after initial doubts.

Michael told A Current Affair that while his head told him the situation couldn't be true, his heart urged him not to abandon Melanie. He was swayed by her sharing what appeared to be her passport, identity card, and nurse registration certificate. Melanie claimed to be around 50 years old, and Michael found the attention flattering.

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She said she was only about 50 years of age, and getting somebody interested [in me], it was obviously flattering.

However, digital forensics specialist Dr. Priyanka Singh from the University of Queensland analyzed a video call and identified clear signs of manipulation. Distortions in Melanie's earrings, a changing chair shape, and the shocking detail of her having six fingers when she brushed her face, all pointed to a deepfake.

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My head said, this can’t be true, but my heart said I don’t want to abandon her.

Scammers reportedly used the social media profile and YouTube videos of an unsuspecting American doctor, employing voice cloning and advanced face-swapping applications to create a digital persona for their video calls with Michael. After building trust, Melanie began requesting financial assistance, which Michael provided, transferring $180,000 despite his bank's warnings.

New South Wales police investigated the case but concluded that the scam originated overseas, making the recovery of the lost funds highly improbable. Reflecting on the ordeal, Michael stated, "I stopped all my internet accounts." He added, "The best way is to meet somebody in person, isn't it?"

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I stopped all my internet accounts ... the best way is to meet somebody in person, isn’t it?