It is well known that the increase in relationships over the internet has become increasingly common these days, and if you have never lived one, you probably know someone who has already gotten in some kind with someone they have never met in person. In fact, some so many people like to venture into social networks in search of a new crush.
However, for those who think that safety is guaranteed just because they are hiding behind the screens, this could not be farther from the truth. There are a lot of dangers that we could imagine on the internet, and precaution must be taken at all times when browsing the net and especially when we are dealing with an unknown person.
How to identify a catfish?
First, let me explain what a catfish is for those who are not used to the term. Well according to Wikipedia, “Catfishing is a type of deceptive activity where a person creates a sock puppet social networking profile/presence, or a fake identity on the social media platform, usually targeting a specific victim for deception.”
Usually, people who want to hide their real identity, avoid making phone calls and exchanging audio messages. If you suspect this type of behaviour, then it is advisable for you to ask the person for their phone number, which at least may help you to identify if the number is real and if it belongs to who they say they are.
Another way you can compromise the identity of your crush is by inviting them to a video call. With that, it becomes virtually impossible for the other person to sustain the lie. Generally, people who pass by on the web sometimes use photos that do not match their profile which is easily unmasked when it comes to a conference via video.
If the person doesn’t want to appear on a live video call, regardless of the reason they present, then that is a huge red flag. People with nothing to hide do not hide.
But while the internet can present all these dangers, it is also your best ally in uncovering if someone else is who they claim to be. A simple Google search could retrieve the information you are seeking, but sometimes expert help is required.
Some companies focus on catching catfish
A company based in Southern California, Social Catfish, is an online dating investigation service that specialises on these exact issues, verifying if people are who they say they are on the internet.
To do this, they use proprietary tools that sweep the internet in search of information relating to a specific person. Because of this, they are also experts in finding people you lost contact with.
An excellent way to clear any doubts is to set up a personal face-to-face meeting with the person you are talking to.
It’s not going to be that easy and if the person is lying, as they will surely try everything for that meeting not to happen, but you should insist on it. If they keep resisting, then there goes your red flag.
The internet has facilitated dating in a way out, with virtual crushes, you will now always end up with the desired outcome, so you have to be prepared to face the situation and avoid any disappointment.
Have you ever been catfished? Have you had any suspicion? Let us know by using the comments section below.
