Catfishing is when someone pretends to be someone else online. It can happen on social media, dating apps, online games, and more. Catfish create fake identities and profiles to trick people. They often target people looking for love or friendship online. Learning the signs of catfishing can help you avoid getting scammed or hurt.
Their profile seems too good to be true
If someone’s online profile seems absolutely perfect, it could be a red flag. Catfish often use fake photos of attractive people. They create idealized personalities and life stories. For example, their profile may say they have a high-paying job, many expensive possessions, and model-like looks. In real life, few people are that perfect. Be very suspicious if someone seems flawless on their profile.
They have an excuse for everything
When you ask questions or try to video chat with a catfish, they’ll come up with elaborate excuses. For example, they may claim their camera is broken or they have an unreliable internet connection. They’ll have a reason for why they can never talk on the phone or meet up in person. A genuine person would make more of an effort to speak or meet up. If someone always has a reason why they can’t, they might be lying about who they are.
Their photos seem off
Many catfish use fake or stolen photos for their profile pictures. Look closely at the photos they’re using. If the photos seem professionally done for a dating profile, that’s suspicious. Usually people use casual selfies. Do a reverse image search on the photos. If the same photos come up with different names, they were stolen. Also be wary if they have hardly any photos, refuse to take new ones, or all of them are out of focus.
Their social media is suspicious
These days, most people have multiple social media profiles. But a catfish might refuse to add you on social media or let you see their accounts. Or they may make excuses for why they can’t accept a follow request. They often won’t connect with you because it will reveal they’ve fabricated large parts of their identity. No posts with family and friends is also a red flag.
What they say and what they do don’t match
Pay attention when a person’s words do not match their actions. For example, they may talk as if you are in a serious relationship but then become distant or unavailable for days. Catfish often declare love quickly to manipulate people. But then they pull away and create drama or situations where they can’t meet up. Inconsistencies in someone’s behavior are a warning sign.
They ask for financial help
Some catfish specifically target people for money. They fabricate sad stories and ask for help with emergencies, bills, or travel costs. A genuine person you’ve never met would not ask to borrow money. Be very cautious of anyone asking for financial help or attempting to manipulate you to send them money online.
Their number is from an unexpected area code
Catfish often purchase throwaway phone numbers to hide their real identity. They may list a number with an area code from a different state or country. Ask them about the discrepancy. See if their explanation makes sense or sounds like an excuse. An unexpected area code and phone number is often a clue that something is off.
You find inconsistencies in their stories
If you talk frequently with someone, pay attention if they contradict themselves or get details wrong. Like any liar, catfish have a hard time keeping all their lies straight. Look for inconsistencies in their stories about where they live, work, grew up, etc. If they can’t keep the facts straight, they might not be real.
You can’t find them online
Do a thorough online search for the person to see if they have a digital footprint. Most people leave at least some trail across social media, professional networking sites, and so on. If you can’t find any trace of them, it could mean they’re hiding something. Run a search to see if their photos come up linked to a different name as well.
They avoid answering personal questions
Pay close attention if someone dodges questions about themselves. For example, they may give vague responses or change the topic when you ask about where they work, grew up, went to school, etc. Deflecting questions makes it hard to verify anything about them. They may avoid details they know they’ve fabricated.
They don’t have any shared connections
Scammers often target strangers out of the blue. Be suspicious if you have no shared connections, friends, or followers with someone. Having some overlap in connections increases the likelihood the person is real. Be extra cautious communicating with someone if you can’t find any mutual connections.
You can’t find their address
Catfish will typically avoid giving you a home address. Or they may claim they’re traveling or recently moved. To uncover the truth, consider running a background check on them. Look up property records to see if you can find any address history for them. No valid address on record can indicate someone is hiding their real identity.
They ghosts you
If someone frequently stops responding with no explanation, they may be catfishing. Catfish put minimal effort into fake relationships. They will suddenly disappear for days or weeks at a time, often just when a meetup seems imminent. Their dodgy behavior usually gives away their lies.
They get defensive
If you voice concerns, a genuine person will get on a video call to reassure you. But when confronted, catfish often lash out or get defensive. They may accuse you of being distrustful and try to guilt trip you. Being unable to have a calm discussion about your doubts is a major warning sign.
Trust your instincts
If something feels off about an online match, pay attention to that feeling. Your instincts may notice red flags before your conscious mind. Don’t ignore any creepy vibes you get. The gut feeling that someone is lying or not who they say they are is often correct.
Here are some common signs someone may be catfishing you:
| Signs of Catfishing |
|---|
| Profile seems too perfect |
| Always has an excuse not to meet or video chat |
| Photos appear fake, stolen, or heavily edited |
| Won’t add you on social media |
| Inconsistencies in stories |
| Asks for money |
| Unexpected area code |
| Can’t find information about them online |
| Dodges personal questions |
| No mutual connections |
| No valid address history |
| Disappears for days at a time |
| Gets defensive when confronted |
Conclusion
Catfishing causes emotional harm and can lead to identity theft or financial fraud in extreme cases. Being aware of the warning signs can help protect you. Always proceed with caution when communicating with someone you met online. If anything seems questionable, confront them directly and pay attention to how they respond. Ask for proof of identity before investing your time, money, or heart. With vigilance, you can hopefully avoid getting caught by a catfish and find a genuine match.