The Unwanted Fame of a Fitness Instructor
Scott Cole, a 63-year-old tai chi and yoga instructor from Palm Springs, California, has spent his career promoting wellness and helping people improve their physical and mental health. However, over the past decade, his image has been misused in a way that has caused significant harm to many individuals.
To unsuspecting victims, Scott has appeared as a construction worker, project manager, and even a marine engineer across various countries. This deception has led to countless instances of romance scams where women have been tricked into forming emotional connections with fake profiles using Cole’s likeness.
How the Scam Works
Fraudsters create social media profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or TikTok, often using stolen photos and fake names. These profiles have used Cole’s images under different names such as Scott Hall, Michael Silver, and Kevin Ottamar. By leveraging his face, scammers have built trust with women over time, leading them to open up about personal information and develop deep emotional bonds.
Once a connection is established, these fake profiles gradually introduce the idea of needing financial help. Some victims have lost thousands of dollars after being told about tragic events requiring immediate assistance. One woman lost $1,000 due to an equipment failure, while another was asked for $5,000, claiming there were no other options.
The Emotional Impact
The emotional toll on victims has been profound. Annette Viau, one of the affected women, shared her experience: “He was there for me. I felt great and I felt safe. And I’m glad I’m not alone.” Many victims have described feeling betrayed and heartbroken when they discovered the truth.
Cole has received numerous messages from victims who recognized his photos and realized they had been deceived. Some have lost hundreds of thousands of dollars, and others have become disillusioned, reaching out to Cole believing they had formed a genuine connection.
Struggling to Stop the Scams
Cole has reported dozens of accounts impersonating him, but social media companies do not always act swiftly. He often searches for his name on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, only to find new fake profiles replacing the ones he has reported. This endless cycle has left him frustrated and overwhelmed.
He has also filed reports with the FBI, which takes complaints seriously but cannot address every case. Despite his efforts, the scammers continue to operate, using his image to exploit vulnerable individuals.
The Broader Problem
According to a 2023 study by the Federal Trade Commission, nearly 70,000 Americans reported experiencing romance scams in the previous year. Victims collectively reported losses totaling $1.3 billion. While Cole feels a sense of responsibility to help those affected, legal expert and former Deputy District Attorney Erin West argues that he is also a victim.
“There really is no end in sight for someone like him,” West said. “The people who have the power to make this stop are not going to make it stop.”
Advice for Social Media Users
The Secret Service advises users to be cautious and avoid sending money, sharing personal information, or opening bank accounts for anyone they have not met in person. As the use of AI and sophisticated techniques continues to evolve, the threat of romance scams remains a growing concern.
The stories of those affected by these scams highlight the importance of awareness and vigilance in the digital world. For now, Scott Cole continues to fight against the misuse of his image, hoping to bring some relief to those who have been deceived.