A 29-year-old Melbourne woman has been found guilty of using Home and Away star Lincoln Lewis’ identity to “catfish” two victims, with one taking her own life in 2018.
WATCH: HOW LINCOLN LEWIS BECAME THE FACE OF DEVASTATING CATFISH SCAM
Lydia Abdelmalek’s four year scam saw her pose as actor Lincoln Lewis, to first seduce, then to torment and harass her victims.
Four other unknowing people were targeted by Abdelmalek in similar scams, including one of her best friends.
She even managed to obtained a victim’s new mobile number by duping an Optus operator, to continue the nightmare harassment.
“Having your number, address, personal details illegally obtained & photos doctored was scary. Having them used to catfish people is sickening,’ Lewis began, in a lengthy Twitter post about the ordeal.
“But nothing can give back or make right what this sick person did and took away from the victims.
‘For everyone, but especially for those with kids, know who you or they are talking to online. be absolutely sure of it! Social media can be great but also a scary place as there are sick twisted people out there. Be safe.
‘I also want to take this time to thank the incredible police & detectives who have worked tirelessly on this case over the last 8 years. You see the worst actions in people yet never give up. You are amazing. Thank you.’
Abdelmalek was finally pinned for her crimes after one of her victims, with the help of police, convinced her to go to a bank to deposit money into their account.
She will be sentenced in June.
If you, or someone you love needs support and information about suicide prevention, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
