Catfishing

Catfishing involves building a false online identity, often using photos stolen from social media, to form a relationship with an unsuspecting person. The catfisher may present themselves as a romantic prospect, a potential friend, or even a professional contact.

Motivations vary: some catfishers seek money by manufacturing a crisis once emotional attachment is established ('I need emergency surgery funds'); others harvest personal information, seek revenge, or simply enjoy the deception. In the most financially damaging cases, catfishing overlaps with romance scams and investment fraud.

Warning signs include reluctance to video-call, profiles with suspiciously model-quality photos, rapid declarations of affection, and biographical details that don't quite add up. Reverse image searching profile photos is a quick and effective first check.