Online dating has become the new norm, especially since the pandemic has made traditional dating a bit challenging. With the surge in online dating, there's an increasing risk of falling victim to catfishing scams. Catfishing is when someone creates a fake online profile to trick people into thinking they are someone else. It's a prevalent problem on dating apps, but don't worry, we've got you covered. Here are 5 ways to avoid catfishing on popular dating apps.
Vet profiles thoroughly
The first tip to avoid being catfished is to thoroughly vet every profile you come across. Don't just look at the pictures and go straight to messaging. Take the time to review the person's bio and pictures. Look for inconsistencies in their stories or anything that seems too good to be true. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
Do a reverse image search
One of the best ways to spot a catfish is by doing a reverse image search. This can easily be done by right-clicking on the profile picture and selecting 'search Google for image'. If the same picture appears on several different social media profiles under different names, you're likely dealing with a catfish.
Use video calls
Most popular dating apps now include video chat features. Utilize this feature to confirm the identity of the person you're communicating with. It's much harder to fake identity through live video, making it a powerful tool against catfishing.
Check their social media
If you've matched with someone, before moving forward, check out their other social media platforms. Most genuine users will have a presence on more than one platform. If you can't find them anywhere else, or if their other profiles look less than authentic, be careful.
Look for verified profiles
Many popular dating apps now offer profile verification features. This can be a badge that appears on a profile, indicating that the app has verified the user's identity. Prioritize matches with verified profiles to minimize the risk of encountering a catfish.
Here's a quick summary:
Remember, while these tips can significantly reduce the risk of falling for a catfish, they're not foolproof. There's no substitute for using common sense and maintaining a healthy dose of skepticism when meeting new people online.
