Catfishing means creating a fake online identity, typically on social media or dating sites, to deceive or trick others. This often involves using stolen photos and false information to lure people into relationships or scams, sometimes for financial gain or emotional manipulation.
Key aspects of catfishing:
- It usually involves fabricating a romantic or personal profile.
- Catfishers avoid video calls or in-person meetings to conceal their true identity.
- It can be used to defraud victims, engage in cyberbullying, or manipulate individuals.
- The term gained popularity from the 2010 documentary "Catfish" and related media.
Why people catfish:
- Low self-esteem or dissatisfaction with their real identity.
- To gain trust or financial advantage.
- Sometimes as a form of trolling or harassment.
Signs of catfishing include:
- Refusal to video chat or meet.
- Few friends or followers on profiles.
- Requests for money or secrecy about the relationship.
