Samantha Cookes, a notorious serial con-artist, posed as a child therapist to exploit families in the UK and Ireland. This blog explores how Cookes used deception, manipulation, and a fake Lapland trip to swindle vulnerable parents. Her story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trusting strangers and the importance of staying vigilant against scams.

Samantha Cookes’ Deceptive Tactics as a Child Therapist

For years, Samantha Cookes posed as a child therapist, gaining the trust of families in the UK and Ireland. One of her victims, Lynn McDonald, believed Cookes was a professional who could help her daughter, Ellie, cope with a rare medical condition. But Cookes’ true intentions were far more sinister.

The Fake Lapland Trip Scam

One of Cookes’ most audacious scams involved a fake Lapland trip. She convinced families to donate money for the trip, but in the end, the holiday was a complete fabrication. Victims like Hillery Geelan were left with no answers and a large sum of money missing, while Cookes continued to manipulate those who trusted her.

Fearing for Their Children’s Safety

As the scam unraveled, the victims began to realize the true danger they had been in. Cookes had requested parental consent forms, asking to take children abroad—raising fears that she might have intended to abduct them. Lynn McDonald described how she slept with a hatchet beside her bed, fearing that Cookes would return to take her child.

Social Media Exposure and the Final Reveal

In 2022, Cookes appeared on TikTok under a false identity, claiming to suffer from Huntington’s disease. This viral post eventually led to her exposure. Social media sleuths uncovered her deception, revealing her true identity and past scams. It was this online investigation that ultimately brought her to justice.

How Samantha Cookes Was Caught and the Impact on Her Victims

After years of fraudulent activity, Cookes was finally caught and sentenced to prison for social welfare fraud in 2025. Victims like Hillery Geelan are now supporting each other through their trauma, coming together in a WhatsApp group to share their experiences and heal. The case has sparked conversations about the need for stronger safeguards to protect families from scammers.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Family from Scammers

Samantha Cookes’ story serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by con-artists. Her ability to exploit families, particularly those with vulnerable children, highlights the importance of being cautious when trusting strangers. Families must be vigilant about who they allow into their lives, especially when it comes to the safety and well-being of their children.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family from scams, visit this government resource.