The Times Australia
The Times Lifestyle

.

5 Signs You're Being Catfished Online

  • Written by The Times


Online dating has grown in popularity, but it may also be dangerous. You never really know who you're talking to until you really meet them. Unfortunately, some people take advantage of this and establish bogus profiles in order to defraud others. If you're not careful, you might get catfished. Here are five indicators that you're being catfished on the internet.

What is Catfishing?

You meet someone online and start a relationship. All seems well, but there's something just not right about this person. They're always making excuses for why they can't meet in person or why they can't talk on the phone. You've probably been catfished. Catfishing is when someone creates a false identity online to gain your trust and then takes advantage of you. It can be difficult to tell if you're being catfished, but there are some warning signs to look out for.

The Online Persona Doesn't Match

It can be easy to form an impression of someone based on their online persona. However, it's important to remember that this persona may not be accurate. People can present themselves in any way they choose online, and they may not be truthful about who they really are. As a result, you shouldn't assume that you know someone based on their online presence alone. If you've only met someone online, or if you've only met them once in person, it's best to wait until you know them better before forming any opinions about them.

Unlimited Excuses

Forming a romantic connection with someone you've only ever met online can be difficult. You build up a picture of who they are in your head, and you might start to believe that you know them better than anyone else. However, there are always going to be limitations to a relationship that exists solely online. You can never be sure that the person you're talking to is who they say they are, and there's always the possibility that they're hiding something from you. If someone always has an excuse for why they can't meet up in person or why they can't video chat, it's likely that they're not being completely honest with you. It's important to remember that online relationships come with a certain amount of risk, and you shouldn't get too invested in someone until you're sure that they're being truthful with you.

Always Asking for Money

It's always frustrating when strangers ask for money, even though you've never even met in person. It's even more frustrating when they do it repeatedly, even after you've politely declined. There are a few things you can do to handle this situation effectively. First, simply say no and end the conversation. If they persist, be firm and remind them that you don't know them and you're not interested. You can also try telling them that you don't have any money on you or that you're not comfortable giving money to strangers. If they still won't take no for an answer, the best thing to do is walk away. Remember, you don't owe anyone anything and have the right to set boundaries as needed.

Pictures Seem too Good to Be True

It's always a red flag when someone's photos look too good to be true. Chances are, they either used a professional photographer or someone else's photos without permission. In either case, it's important to proceed with caution. If they're using someone else's photos, they may be trying to scam you. And even if the photos are real, it's possible that they're not an accurate representation of what the person looks like. So before you get too invested in someone you've met online, make sure you've seen plenty of recent, clear photos of them. Otherwise, you may be in for a nasty surprise.

Inconsistent Profile

When considering someone's profile, it is important to pay attention to any inconsistencies that may be present. For example, if they claim to be a doctor but their grammar and spelling are terrible, it is possible that they are not being truthful about their occupation. Additionally, their profile may be full of other inconsistencies, such as discrepancies in their age, location, or relationship status. While not all inconsistencies are cause for concern, they should be considered when trying to get to know someone online. After all, if someone is being dishonest about one thing, they may also be deceptive about other aspects of their life.

Conclusion

To protect oneself from being scammed, it is important to be aware of the red flags in online or sugar dating. If you are ever unsure about someone that you are speaking with online, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. The team at [company name] is more than happy to assist you in any way that we can. Thank you for reading this post, and be sure to stay safe while looking for love online!

Times Lifestyle

Exploring the Curriculum at a Modern Junior School in Melbourne

Key Highlights The curriculum at junior schools emphasises whole-person development, catering to children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. It ensures early years students build strong literacy and numeracy foundations for lifelong...

How Smart Home Integration is Enhancing SIL Accommodation in 2025

(Source) The concept of "home" is intensely personal, a sanctuary where we experience security, comfort, and a sense of being in control. For people living with disability, accomplishing absolute independence within their domestic environment has ...

How to Know If You’re Actually on Track for a Comfortable Retirement

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik It’s the kind of question that sits in the back of your mind, especially as you tick past your 30s or 40s: Am I actually saving enough for retirement? It’s easy to assume things are fine if your super account grows ...

Boxer Star Harry Garside Champions Breathwork as a Game-Changer for Athletes

Olympic boxer Harry Garside is known for his unconventional approach to training but one practice has profoundly shifted his mindset and performance: breathwork. Moving from ballet to boxing, Harry, 27, was first introduced to Holotropic breathw...

Hampers With Bite - A box of life’s little luxuries

How do you acknowledge special moments, special someones, special achievements…or just give yourself a special treat? For all of the above, and more, you can turn to Hampers With Bite.I was lucky enough to be treated to a lovely box of selfcare goo...

Mind-Body Balance: The Holistic Approach of Personal Training in Moonee Ponds

Key Highlights Discover the benefits of a holistic approach to personal training in Moonee Ponds and nearby Maribyrnong, including residents from Strathmore. Learn how mind-body balance can enhance your overall well-being. Explore techniques f...

Times Magazine

Headless CMS in Digital Twins and 3D Product Experiences

Image by freepik As the metaverse becomes more advanced and accessible, it's clear that multiple sectors will use digital twins and 3D product experiences to visualize, connect, and streamline efforts better. A digital twin is a virtual replica of ...

The Decline of Hyper-Casual: How Mid-Core Mobile Games Took Over in 2025

In recent years, the mobile gaming landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with mid-core mobile games emerging as the dominant force in app stores by 2025. This shift is underpinned by changing user habits and evolving monetization tr...

Understanding ITIL 4 and PRINCE2 Project Management Synergy

Key Highlights ITIL 4 focuses on IT service management, emphasising continual improvement and value creation through modern digital transformation approaches. PRINCE2 project management supports systematic planning and execution of projects wit...

What AI Adoption Means for the Future of Workplace Risk Management

Image by freepik As industrial operations become more complex and fast-paced, the risks faced by workers and employers alike continue to grow. Traditional safety models—reliant on manual oversight, reactive investigations, and standardised checklist...

From Beach Bops to Alpine Anthems: Your Sonos Survival Guide for a Long Weekend Escape

Alright, fellow adventurers and relaxation enthusiasts! So, you've packed your bags, charged your devices, and mentally prepared for that glorious King's Birthday long weekend. But hold on, are you really ready? Because a true long weekend warrior kn...

Effective Commercial Pest Control Solutions for a Safer Workplace

Keeping a workplace clean, safe, and free from pests is essential for maintaining productivity, protecting employee health, and upholding a company's reputation. Pests pose health risks, can cause structural damage, and can lead to serious legal an...

The Times Features

Exploring the Curriculum at a Modern Junior School in Melbourne

Key Highlights The curriculum at junior schools emphasises whole-person development, catering to children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual needs. It ensures early year...

Distressed by all the bad news? Here’s how to stay informed but still look after yourself

If you’re feeling like the news is particularly bad at the moment, you’re not alone. But many of us can’t look away – and don’t want to. Engaging with news can help us make ...

The Role of Your GP in Creating a Chronic Disease Management Plan That Works

Living with a long-term condition, whether that is diabetes, asthma, arthritis or heart disease, means making hundreds of small decisions every day. You plan your diet against m...

Troubleshooting Flickering Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik Effectively addressing flickering lights in your home is more than just a matter of convenience; it's a pivotal aspect of both home safety and en...

My shins hurt after running. Could it be shin splints?

If you’ve started running for the first time, started again after a break, or your workout is more intense, you might have felt it. A dull, nagging ache down your shins after...

Metal Roof Replacement Cost Per Square Metre in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Homeowners

In recent years, the trend of installing metal roofs has surged across Australia. With their reputation for being both robust and visually appealing, it's easy to understand thei...