Catfishing is a deceptive activity in which a person creates a fictional persona or fake identity on a social networking service, usually targeting a specific victim. The term "catfishing" comes from a 2010 documentary film in which a man presented his own experience of being tricked online. Here are some key points about catfishing:
- A catfisher takes information and images, typically from other people, and uses them to create a new identity for themselves.
- Catfishing often involves luring people into artificial relationships to learn information the attacker can use against the victim.
- Catfishing allows participants to disassociate from ones everyday identity, shielding from moral obligation or responsibility.
- Catfishing mainly takes place on social media platforms and online dating sites or apps.
- Signs that someone might be catfishing you include avoiding showing their face, asking for money early into your relationship, telling you they love you after only a short time, and avoiding face-to-face contact.
- Catfishing can have serious consequences, ranging from pranking friends to carrying out serious crimes, like sexual assault and identity theft.
If you suspect that you or someone you know is a victim of catfishing, there are ways to handle it and protect yourself.
