Understanding Catfishing: 15 Indicators of Online Deception

January 30, 2024 - Reading time: 15 minutes

Are you a potential victim of catfishing?

The concern that the individual you're conversing with on the internet might not be who they present themselves as sparks the fear of catfishing... Despite media often painting it as fodder for lighthearted movies, the truth couldn't be further from being a quirky plot point. The act of catfishing on online dating platforms is a serious concern, and can involve huge repercussions for the victim, both emotionally and financially. It's essential to comprehend what being catfished means and recognise the tell-tale signs in order to shield oneself from these online deceivers, who range from harmless tricksters to dangerous predators. We will explore some of the most common signs of catfishing in this article.

What is Catfishing?

Catfishing is the deliberate act of fabricating an online persona to trick individuals into relationships, be they platonic or romantic. The term "catfish" denotes the individual crafting fake identities. What distinguishes catfishers from other internet fraudsters - like trolls or scammers - is that their focus on establishing and maintaining relationships over time. (So to clarify, borrowing your friend's phone to message your crush doesn't amount to catfishing.)

The behaviour is exploitative and deceptive. Popularised by Nev Schulman's 2010 documentary Catfish and its TV series spinoff, catfishing remains prevalent, especially as dating apps and social media provide ample avenues. With "confidence fraud" on the rise, especially noticeable during the COVID-19 pandemic, the FBI has even issued formal alerts, revealing a steep rise in romance scam reports in recent years.

Although it might be tempting to dismiss the possibility of being catfished, it's critical to admit that no one is immune to it.

The Origins of the Term 'Catfishing'

The term dates back to Nev Schulman's documentary, where Vince Pierce, the husband of a woman who had catfished others, provided an illuminating analogy. He explained how seafood vendors observed that shipping live cod with catfish in the tanks resulted in the cod remaining active and alert due to the presence of their natural predator.

Pierce said, "There are those people who are catfish in life. They keep you on your toes, they keep you guessing, they keep you fresh. And I thank God for the catfish because we would be, if it were not for the catfish, droll, boring and dull."

Despite the odd justification for deceitful actions, the term has remained.

The Motivations of Catfishers

The underlying reasons for catfishing are far from positive. Some catfishers are lonely individuals with low self-esteem, seeking connections they feel wouldn't happen in real life. Others engage in trolling, harassment, or revenge. It's important to note that a catfish can be someone familiar - it's not exclusively between strangers. Some instances of catfishing amount to cyberbullying or cyberstalking, while others revolve around financial scams.

Feeling unsettled is a normal reaction to suspecting that you're the target of a catfish. If you suspect your online interlocutor may be one, it's advised that you sever contact swiftly, even if their actions seem rooted in isolation. No relationship should begin with deceit.

Below are some common signs to help you discern if you are being catfished, informed by experiences shared by those who have encountered catfishers.

Legality of Catfishing... Is Catfishing illegal?

Determining whether catfishing constitutes illegal activity presents a complex issue, but understanding the legal implications is crucial if you suspect yourself a victim of catfishing or believe your images are being misused for such purposes. Although catfishing in itself isn't typically classified as illegal, FindLaw.com suggests that specific behaviors associated with catfishing can be. Misrepresenting oneself online doesn't inherently break the law; however, associated actions such as fraud, extortion, and cyberbullying are criminal offenses. Additionally, caution is imperative during the exchange of intimate or explicit images, particularly if the involved parties are minors, as they could constitute indecent images. Since catfishing laws can vary depending on which jurisdiction you are in, it's advisable to seek legal counsel for guidance on this subject.

Going through a catfishing investigation can be an exhaustive and invasive ordeal, involving close examination of personal communications and device monitoring. To protect yourself if facing potential catfishing, document all interactions, especially if monetary transactions or image exchanges are involved. If you are a minor and suspect that you're a victim of catfishing, then it's vital to confide in a trusted adult.

It's worth noting, however, that posting slightly outdated photos on a dating profile, or discovering that someone you've met has done so, does not typically meet the threshold of catfishing that incurs legal penalties.

Warning Signs That You are Being Catfished 

1. They Avoid Making Voice Calls

From personal experience, dodging phone calls can be a sign of catfishing. As a teenager, I engaged in role-play on Xanga, where I met "Bradley," a 20-year-old from the United States. Pre-smartphone era, texting was our main communication until I called to wish him happy birthday - but he never picked up. His generic voicemail led me to investigate further, ultimately uncovering that an older woman had fabricated this identity, interacting with multiple teenage girls online.

2. Sparse Social Networks and Suspicious Friend Groups

Alaina Leary, during her seventh-grade year, created fake MySpace and AIM accounts with her real first name but false photos to connect with a boy who mistreated her friend. Though her ruse was short-lived, lasting only two weeks, the experience taught her how to spot a catfisher, noting particularly that her social media account's lack of friends was a telltale indication. She learned that multi-platform presence - like on dating apps, Instagram, and Twitter, makes verification easier, as it provides transparency into the user's authenticity.

If the person you are speaking to claims to be from a Western country, but has mostly friends and followers from countries in Africa or Asia on their social media profiles, this should also act as a warning sign that everything may not be as it seems.

3. Inconsistencies in Their Narrative

When Katelyn Burns encountered a catfish on OKCupid, an immediate red flag was the specifics—or lack thereof—about his job situation. He claimed to be relocating to her small beach town for a new job office, a scenario she found highly improbable. Doubts increased when he dodged particular questions about his move. Confirmation that he was catfishing came after a reverse-image search linked his pictures to a different individual's Facebook account.

4. Misappropriated Photos

To confirm the identity of someone online, a reverse-image search can be very telling. Discovering the images linked to a different person's account typically unveils dishonesty. This was precisely the validating moment for Burns, who suspected that not only did the details of the man's life not make sense, but also his very identity was based on another's photos.

5. Overly Thrilling Life Stories

An excessively fascinating or dramatic personal narrative can also be an indicator of catfishing. Burns was wary when she came across a profile that seemed too perfect to be real, and her suspicions were affirmed when her research pointed to another person's compromised account.

For individuals who struggle with low self-confidence, particularly catfish, the draw of adopting alluring personas online and garnering praise for fictitious achievements can be a powerful motivator. If you encounter someone whose recent adventures surpass what most people experience in a year, it's wise to prompt them for detailed answers, which may reveal inconsistencies in their stories. This advice holds even if their claimed weekly escapades tend more towards tales of woe and misfortune, which might be crafted to elicit your compassion.

6. Their Only Photos are Professionally Shot (OR low quality)

Bernard Parham, a film and television producer, who faced catfishing himself six years earlier, gained insight into the schemes catfish commonly employ while working on the MTV series "Catfish" from its second to fifth season. One telltale sign he pointed out is the presence of professional-quality photos.

Parham notes that non-authentic profiles often feature professional headshots or model portfolio cards, which should immediately raise doubts. In contrast, everyday people typically post candid shots taken by their acquaintances.

Moreover, Leary points out that genuine social media users frequently upload various images, capturing moments from their everyday life. One should be cautious around individuals with scant personal photographs.

Leary further explains that someone is less likely to be a catfish if you see a variety of their photos, including random shots like a succulent collection, their cat lounging, or a beach they recently visited.

If all their photos are not professionally shot but instead low quality and possibly pixilated then this can also act as a warning sign that the images have been downloaded elsewhere and reused.

7. They Rarely Update Their Profile Pictures

Individuals who engage in catfishing online tend to be limited by the number of photos they have of the identity they're assuming. Thus, they must be economical with the images they use and reserve some to share with you privately that haven't been uploaded to their profiles yet. Consequently, if you notice someone has not changed their profile picture for a considerable time or has never done so, consider it a potential warning sign.

8. They Don't Share Spontaneous Selfies

Given that catfish have a finite selection of photos they can share with you, they must carefully choose which ones to send and when. The absence of a candid selfie or a picture from a recent event that you've both discussed may indicate that they simply are unable to send such images, often opting to send only polished, postable pictures that might have already been used by someone else.

9. They Are Hesitant to Meet in Person or Video Call

Reflecting on his middle school days, Mike Funk recalls his interaction with "Brendan," a skater who was said to live in the same area but was never to be seen. Funk later understood that he was being catfished by someone he knew in reality.

The story underscores Parham's advice which is to insist on a video call if an in-person meeting is not feasible, particularly when the other person lives far off. A refusal to engage in video chat is another red flag that the person may not be who they purport to be on their dating profile or Facebook account.

Parham adds that catfish are willing to lure you into their web of lies for as long as possible. It’s better to confront the truth early than to be strung along.

10. They Make Plans But Frequently Back Out

While some catfish might outright decline to meet, others appear willing, only to continually postpone the encounter. Well-versed in the practice of excuse-making, these individuals are always ready with justifications for why they must abruptly call off your meetup or phone call.

When planning meetings, remember, even if you are keen to meet the person face to face, it is crucial to choose a public location for the safety of both parties, particularly for the first meeting.

11. They Seek Your Private Information Yet Remain Evasive About Their Own

Catfish often probe for your private details while remaining mysteriously ambiguous about their personal life. They might pry into your sensitive information while providing little in return, keeping their own background concealed and indefinite.

When someone requests your personal details such as address, DOB, workplace, et al., this is typically a clear warning sign. However, the definition of personal information extends beyond this scenario. It encompasses the invasive queries that aim to lower your defences and coax open your vulnerabilities.

When another person is eager to learn your most candid thoughts and feelings on topics ranging from your favourite TV series to the effects your parents' separation had on you, it can be genuinely validating, particularly if you're missing that type of connection in your real-world interactions. But caution is key if this individual is potentially a catfisher using these conversations to manipulate you and craft an illusion of closeness. This possibility increases if they continuously probe into your life while never reciprocating with details of their own.

12. They Request Financial Help from You

Being asked for money is another definitive indicator that you might be a target of catfishing. Whether it’s a plea for a loan or an outright solicitation of funds, consider this a bright red warning signal. You should never transfer money to someone you have not physically met, regardless of how minor the sum may be.

13. They Express Intense Emotions Towards you Rapidly

If a newfound online acquaintance confesses strong feelings for you shortly after making contact, or exhibits other extreme behaviours, these can be signs that you're dealing with a catfish. Such affection might be flattering, but it's often a tactic used by predators known as 'love bombing' to draw their targets into their trap. It is a ploy that lacks sincere feelings.

14. You Sense that Something is Amiss

Always trust your instincts. When you have an uneasy feeling about your online friend, do not dismiss it. It’s wiser to err on the side of caution. Should you doubt that the person is who they claim to be, chances are they might not be.

15. You Hire Assistance from a Private Investigator

Remember that catfishers are essentially professional fraudsters and it can be very difficult to catch them out. If they are good at their job, then you may not observe any of the warning signs listed in this article.

As leading private investigators in the UK, we can help our clients to check out the person that they are speaking to online, in order to confirm their identity as a legitimate person or expose them as a fraud.

Our experienced team of detectives can use a variety of different methods in order to check whether someone is catfishing... Giving you either peace of mind that everything is fully above board and legitimate, or in some cases the cold hard truth that things aren't what they seem.

We offer free, no pressure quotes for all work. Please feel free to tell us about your case in as much detail as possible if you would like to learn about how we are able to assist.

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