Catfishing

Use our guide to learn what catfishing is, how to avoid getting catfished, and what to do if you think you're being targeted.

What Is Catfishing?

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Catfishing is when someone uses images and information (often taken from other people's social media accounts) to create a new identity online, sometimes using an individual's entire identity as their own.

Why Do People Catfish?

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People choose to catfish others for a variety of reasons, and there are many psychological considerations to factor in when dealing with this type of situation. Below are some of the reasons why people choose to catfish others:

The Effects of Catfishing

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When someone is catfished, it can be extremely damaging to their mental health, especially if they are emotionally invested in a friendship or romantic relationship with the catfisher. Victims of catfishing can find it extremely difficult to trust after their experience, affecting relationships both personal and professional.

Signs That You Might Be Being Catfished

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It can be difficult to identify a catfish. Although the signs you might be getting catfished can be different for each situation, it is not always obvious that it is happening. Some of the most common situations where you could have fallen victim to catfishing include:

How Can I Prevent Being Catfished?

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Avoiding getting catfished can be very difficult because of the sheer volume of people we interact with online each day. Therefore, it can be difficult to check each identity for authenticity; however, there are tips to prevent or reduce your chances of being caught. Some of the ways you can prevent being catfished are:

FAQs