If you suspect someone you’re interacting with online might be a catfisher, here are the most common signs to look out for.
1. Limited or no social media presence
Their profile seems too new or incomplete. They have very few friends, followers, or interactions on their social media accounts. Their photos look staged, overly polished, or are suspiciously similar to stock images.
2. Reluctance to show their face
They avoid video calls or live chats, making excuses like poor internet connection or lack of a camera. They may send the same photo repeatedly instead of taking a new one upon request.
3. Stories that don’t add up
Their background details (job, location, family) may change over time or seem inconsistent. They share overly dramatic or far-fetched life events to evoke sympathy or connection.
4. Refusal to meet in person
Despite lengthy communication, they consistently avoid or postpone meeting in real life. They may claim to live far away, be travelling or they say they have personal issues that prevent them from meeting.
5. Overly attractive or unrealistic profile
Their photos or life stories seem “too good to be true,” like being extremely attractive, wealthy or accomplished. Their interests and values might perfectly align with yours, which feels overly coincidental (almost like they may have researched your background).
6. Unusual patterns in communication
They respond inconsistently or only during specific hours, often late at night or early morning. Their language, tone or grammar may vary significantly, suggesting multiple people may be behind the account.
7. Requests for money or help
They claim to have a financial emergency, such as needing money for medical expenses, travel, a family issue or a business venture. They may ask for untraceable payments like gift cards, wire transfers or cryptocurrency instead of traditional payments.
8. Refusal to share personal details
They avoid giving specific answers to basic questions about their life. They may deflect or redirect conversations when asked for personal information.
9. Use of stolen or generic images
A reverse image search of their photo (with specialist software like that Vilcol uses) can show they their picture actually is of someone else or it may appear on multiple unrelated accounts. Their profile may use stock images, celebrities or other easily accessible pictures.
10. They create emotional intensity too quickly
They express deep feelings of love or attachment early in the relationship. Scammers will have more success if they can get their target to buy into the relationship more quickly. This is especially effective on those who may be lonely or vulnerable. For instance, perhaps they may have suffered loss or are longing for companionship or love. They push for a sense of exclusivity or commitment without having met in person.
11. Inconsistencies in language or cultural knowledge
Their way of speaking or writing doesn’t line up with the location they claim to be from. They may struggle to answer questions about local customs, geography or events.
12. Untraceable contact information
They refuse to share their phone number or use apps like WhatsApp, preferring only messaging platforms or social media. Their phone number or email address appears fake or untraceable.
13. Suspicious or incomplete profile
Their online profile lacks detailed information about their life, hobbies or interests. Their profile photos may seem generic, with no tags, locations or genuine
interactions.
14. Inappropriate requests
They may ask for sensitive photos, personal details or other private information early in the interaction. They could use manipulation or guilt to pressure you into complying.
15. Reactions to scepticism
When questioned, they may become defensive, change the topic or use guilt to avoid answering directly. They might accuse you of not trusting them or try to divert attention with emotional responses.
How best to confirm your suspicions
Reverse image search
Use tools like Google Lens or TinEye to check their photos. There are other paid tools out there, but many require you to buy credits and do not necessarily deliver a result. You can also enlist a professional image tracing agent like Vilcol to assist.
Professional background checks
Ask a tracking agent like us to verify their name, job or location online.
Ask for proof
Request a live call or a specific video or photo that is hard to fake.
Involve others:
Share your concerns with trusted friends or family for a second opinion. Get them to contact the person on your behalf to ask some questions. If multiple signs are still present, proceed with caution, avoid sharing personal information and consider cutting off contact if suspicions remain.
Get in touch with our Catfishing Investigations Team
Don’t let catfishers and scammers abuse your trusting nature. Call the Vilcol specialist Private Investigators team on 0208 390 9988 or email customercare@vilcol.com to
find out more.