In the world of online dating and social media, the term the catfish is all too familiar. A catfish is someone who creates a fake online identity to deceive others, often for attention, money, or more malicious reasons. And while the internet opens up amazing possibilities for meeting new people, it also comes with risks.
Here are some key tips to help you spot a catfish and protect yourself from falling victim to their schemes. And why working with a trusted matchmaker like Erica Suzanne can offer a safer, more intentional way to date.
6 Signs You Might Be Talking to a Catfish
1. Inconsistent Information
One of the first signs of a catfish is inconsistent information. If the person you’re talking to provides details about their life that don’t add up or frequently change their story, it’s a red flag. Pay attention to discrepancies in their background, job, or location. Genuine individuals are usually consistent in their accounts of their lives.
2. Lack of Photos or Low-Quality Images
Catfish often use stolen or low-quality photos to create their fake profiles. If the person you’re communicating with has very few photos or the images they provide are blurry and appear to be taken from other sources, it’s a cause for concern. Reverse image searches can help you verify if the photos are legitimate or taken from other websites.
3. Reluctance to Meet or Video Chat
Catfish typically avoid face-to-face meetings or video calls. If the person you’re talking to always has an excuse for not meeting in person or refuses to video chat, it’s a sign that they may not be who they claim to be. Genuine individuals are usually open to meeting in person or having video conversations to build trust.
4. Too Good to Be True
If someone seems too perfect or their attention feels overwhelming, it might be a tactic to gain your trust quickly. Catfish often create idealized personas to appeal to their targets. If the person showers you with compliments, shares your exact interests, and appears flawless, take a step back and assess the situation critically.
5. Requests for Money or Personal Information
One of the most significant red flags is when someone you’ve met online asks for money or sensitive personal information. Catfish often create urgent or emotional scenarios to manipulate their targets into providing financial assistance. Never send money or share personal details with someone you haven’t met in person and fully trust.
6. Trust Your Instincts
Your intuition is a powerful tool. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts and proceed with caution. It’s always better to be safe and take your time getting to know someone before fully trusting them.
A Better, Safer Way to Date: Erica Suzanne Matchmaking
If you’re tired of ghosting, games, or worrying about fake profiles, there’s another way.
Erica Suzanne Matchmaking offers a curated, high-integrity approach to dating. Whether through one-on-one matchmaking or her popular Virtual Speed Dating events, Erica’s services are designed to connect you with real people who are aligned with your values and relationship goals.
Here’s what makes our approach different:
Verified Matches: No catfish here. Every participant is vetted, so you know you’re meeting real, relationship-minded individuals.
Virtual Speed Dating: Safe, structured, and done from the comfort of your own home. These events let you meet multiple matches face-to-face (virtually) in a short time.
Personalized Support: With coaching and curated introductions, we help you navigate the modern dating world with more confidence and clarity.
Skip the Scams. Choose Real Connection.
Dating shouldn’t feel like detective work. If you’re serious about finding love and ready to avoid the uncertainty of dating apps, Erica Suzanne Matchmaking offers a smarter, safer path forward.
Because the right relationship is worth doing it differently.
Ready to Date Smarter?
If you’re done wasting time on dating apps and want a more intentional, personalized approach to finding love, apply to work with Erica Suzanne today. We work with a small number of clients to ensure every match is meaningful.
Apply Now to start your journey toward real connection.
