Wednesday, October 9, 2024

7 Days, 7 Signs - Day 1: Catfishing

 

Day 1:

Catfishing is a deceptive practice where someone creates a fake online persona to lure others into a relationship. Here are some key points about catfishing:

  • False Identities: they aren't who you think they are, in any way - Catfishers often use stolen photos and fabricated personal information to create an attractive or sympathetic online profile.
  • Platforms: Multiple platforms, moving to secure chatting with WhatsApp & Signal - This can occur on social media, dating apps, forums, or any online platform where people connect.
  • Motivations: Manipulation, money and insecurity - Catfishers may seek emotional fulfillment, financial gain, or simply enjoy manipulating others. Some may be lonely or insecure about their real identity.
  • Red Flags: no video chat, can't meet, rich but needs $$ -

    Reluctance to video chat or meet in person - Reverse image searches and video chat can help verify someone's identity, though catfishers are becoming more sophisticated in evading detection.
  • Inconsistencies in their stories
  • Requests for money or personal information (they'll use this info to attempt identity theft)
  • Professing love unusually quickly
... but wait, there's more:

  • Use Reverse image searches like google or tineye - liberally
  • Don't underestimate the emotional impact of being deceived - have a strong support network: Victims often experience significant emotional distress upon discovering the deception, leading to trust issues and sometimes financial losses.
  • Some catfishing leads to identity theft and fraud (don't be a victim): While catfishing itself isn't always illegal, it can lead to crimes like fraud or identity theft.

  • Spreading awareness is key: Here's the perfect way:

(Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJHDQD15

(Barnes & Noble): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/heartbreak-hackers-eina-schroeder/1146392448?ean=2940180937247

(Fable): https://fable.co/book/x-9798227995063

(Smashwords): https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1630318

Go forth ... and be safe.

Image

No comments:

Post a Comment