Catfishing Explained: 15 Signs of Online Deception

January 30, 2024 - Reading time: 7 minutes
Updated on: April 6, 2025

What is Catfishing and How Can You Spot It?

Have you ever found yourself questioning whether someone you’re chatting to online is really who they say they are? If so, you’re not alone — and you might be dealing with a case of catfishing.

While the term is often used jokingly, catfishing is a very real problem with serious consequences. It involves someone creating a fake online persona to build trust, affection, or even manipulate victims emotionally or financially. In this guide, we'll explore what catfishing really is, why people do it, and the clear warning signs to look out for.

What Exactly Is Catfishing?

Catfishing is the act of using a fake identity online to deceive someone into a relationship — usually romantic, but sometimes platonic or financial. These individuals, often called "catfish", craft believable stories, steal photos, and may go to great lengths to keep their real identities hidden.

The rise of dating apps and social media has made it easier than ever for catfishers to operate, and the emotional toll on their victims can be devastating.

Where Does the Term Come From?

The word "catfishing" became widely known after the 2010 documentary Catfish, where a man discovered he’d been misled by a woman pretending to be someone else online. The term originates from a story in the film where catfish were put in tanks with cod to keep them alert — a metaphor for people who keep others guessing in life.

Why Do People Catfish?

The reasons behind catfishing vary. Some are driven by loneliness or insecurity, while others do it maliciously — to harass, scam, or control others. It can happen between strangers or even involve someone you already know.

In some cases, catfishing crosses the line into criminal activity, especially when fraud, blackmail, or child exploitation is involved.

Is Catfishing Illegal?

Catfishing itself isn’t always illegal, but the actions surrounding it often are. Impersonation, using stolen photos, fraud, emotional abuse, or requesting explicit material can lead to serious legal consequences — particularly if minors are involved. If you're affected, it's always best to speak to a legal expert.

15 Signs You Might Be Dealing with a Catfish

1. They Avoid Voice or Video Calls

If someone consistently avoids phone or video chats, they may be hiding their true identity.

2. Sparse or Suspicious Social Media Profiles

A lack of friends, followers, or posts is a red flag — especially if their connections are mostly from unexpected countries.

3. Their Story Doesn’t Add Up

Inconsistencies in their personal history, job, or whereabouts can be signs of deception.

4. Stolen or Misused Photos

Use reverse image search (such as Google Lens or Tineye) to check if their photos appear elsewhere online. Many catfish use pictures of real people they’ve found on the web.

5. Their Life Sounds Too Good (or Too Bad) to Be True

Extreme sob stories or a life filled with glamorous adventures can be tactics to gain sympathy or admiration.

6. Their Only Photos Are Professional or Poor Quality

If all images look like model headshots or are blurry and pixelated, be cautious — they may not be real.

7. They Never Change Their Profile Picture

Catfishers often have limited access to images and avoid updating their profiles to maintain the illusion.

8. No Candid Selfies

A reluctance to share casual, in-the-moment selfies could suggest they don’t have access to new photos of the person they’re pretending to be.

9. They Avoid Meeting or Video Calling

If they constantly cancel plans or refuse to video call, they may be hiding their true identity.

10. Plans Are Always Cancelled

Repeated excuses for not meeting up is one of the most common tactics catfishers use to maintain distance.

11. They Ask You Lots of Personal Questions, But Share Nothing

If they dig deep into your personal life but offer little about themselves, it's a control tactic.

12. They Ask for Money

This is a huge red flag. Never send money to someone you've never met in person.

13. They Express Intense Feelings Too Quickly

If they confess love or deep feelings very early on, it could be emotional manipulation, also known as "love bombing."

14. Something Just Feels Off

Always trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

15. You Consider Hiring a Private Investigator

Sometimes, you just need answers. A licensed private investigator can confirm someone’s identity and provide peace of mind.

Need Help with a Catfish Situation?

At Private Investigators UK, we’ve helped countless clients confirm suspicions and uncover the truth about people they’ve met online. Whether you're unsure or convinced you're being deceived, we’re here to help.

We offer free, no-pressure consultations. If you'd like to speak to our team, simply contact us with your situation, and we'll advise how we can help.

Related Articles

• Can Private Investigators Hack Phones or Social Media?
• Can Private Investigators Check Criminal Records in the UK?
• Can Private Investigators Trace IP Addresses?