Tag Archives: Reverse Image Search

Dating Site Catfish

 Catfishing is pretending to be someone you're notPeople using dating websites are familiar with the term “catfish.” Individuals who catfish people online are pretending to be someone else. They get people to believe that they are something they’re not to trick them. The scammer may trick a person for more than one reason. The catfisher could be a jealous partner, a stalker, someone playing a game, or worse. People who catfish often intend to steal your information for personal gain.

What is a Catfish?

Dating websites and social media apps are the most common places to uncover catfishing. Dating sites have the most instances of catfishing but it can happen on other sites like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat.

This is how it could happen. Suzy signs up on a popular dating website. She posts a flattering picture and basic information. Suzy gets messages from men interested in talking to her. Suzy is excited by the attention she receives. She looks at pictures and answers a few messages. It isn’t long before Suzy notices some strange things about some of the messages. Here are some red flags:

No Profile Picture

Several people contacting Suzy don’t have a profile picture. Some say they don’t have a picture because of their job, but often, the person is married or not who he claims to be. It could be a catfish situation.

Too Good to be True

The sender seems too good to be true. He just might be. If his photo is professionally done or looks familiar, chances are it’s not real. Use a reverse image search to look for like pictures. Common apps include TinEye and Google Reverse Image Search.

Bad English

Scammers may not be native English speakers. They try to convince victims that they are American, but the language gives them away. They often use the wrong words or confuse things such as their, there, and they’re.

Too Much Too Soon

Those who catfish want their targets to act quickly. They try to gain your trust and get your money as fast as possible, so they will to go to any length to win your trust and affection.

The Request

If the scammer feels you trust him (or her), he will ask for something. It usually starts with something small but escalates quickly.

Common requests

Money. The rent or insurance is past due. There has been an accident. The boss fired him. He only needs a small loan.

Gift Cards or Prepaid Cards. These cards are a common request since they cannot be traced.

Take Steps to Protect Yourself

Use an internet phone number or email set up for the dating site.

Download a phone app that will allow you to record, block and/or trace phone numbers.

Never send money to a stranger.

Insist on seeing a picture. Use an image search to verify identity.

Never share personal information about yourself, your job or your family.

Always meet in a neutral, public place.

Get to know the person in real life before giving your complete trust.