Ask Krystal: How do I tell if I am being catfished online?

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of spotting a catfish before they reel you in. The online dating world can be a jungle, but I’ve got your back with some crystal-clear signs and tips to keep you savvy:

Too Good to Be True

If their profile reads like a fairy tale and their pictures look like they walked off a movie set, red flag! Real people have flaws, bad hair days, and, occasionally, less-than-perfect selfies.

Sparse Social Media Presence

Do a little detective work. If they claim to be a social butterfly but have zero social media footprint or a very new profile with limited activity, be cautious. It’s 2024, darling – everyone’s got some digital footprint.

They Avoid Video Calls

If every time you suggest a video call, they suddenly have a “camera issue” or are always too busy, it’s time to raise an eyebrow. Genuine connections want to see and hear you, not just text away.

Rapid Escalation

They declare their undying love or rush into intense emotional conversations too soon. True feelings develop over time, not overnight. If they’re moving at warp speed, hit the brakes.

Vague or Inconsistent Stories

Pay attention to the details. If their life story has more plot holes than a soap opera, or they’re inconsistent with their facts, they might be spinning a web of lies.

Reluctant to Meet in Person

Long-distance love can work, but if they keep finding excuses to avoid meeting up despite supposedly living nearby or planning trips that never happen, it’s sketchy.

They Ask for Money

This one’s a no-brainer, darling. If they start spinning sob stories and asking for money, run. Real relationships aren’t based on financial transactions.

Overly Private About Personal Life

If they’re super secretive about basic details like where they work or live, or dodge questions about their past, they might be hiding something major.

Gut Feeling

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. You don’t need to have concrete proof to take a step back and reassess.

Now, if you’re finding more red flags than a football game, don’t ignore them. It’s better to be cautious and protect your heart (and wallet) than to get tangled in a deceitful web. Stay smart, stay safe, and keep those eyes wide open!