What Is Online Catfishing & How To Protect Yourself From It In 2022?

Cybersecurity is complex and constantly evolving. Even though you think you have mastered the majority of cyber threats, you might be surprised to learn something new. For example, catfishing may seem new to many people. You might be one of those frequent internet users who doesn’t know much about catfishing or the actual damage it can cause.

This blog will discuss catfishing and the reasons behind online catfish. It will also explain how to protect yourself against them.

Catfishing is a technique whereby a person uses information and images to create a fake identity on the internet.

Sometimes, a catfish will steal another person’s identity, including photos and date of birth. Then pretend that it is theirs. The fake identity is used to fool others into joining them online and doing business with them.

Dating app users are also susceptible to catfishing. Catfish can pose as someone they aren’t and lure others into romance scams.

Not all catfish pose cybersecurity threats. People may become catfish because of insecurity about their identity, mental instability, feelings or revenge, as well as a desire to try out sexual preferences and experiment with them. Although some catfish are not malicious, they can be fraudsters or perpetrators of cybercrime against their targets.

What is the secret to catfish scams? Catfish can trick unsuspecting victims into believing they are their fake identity. They may also extract sensitive information. You may be asked for money by many people. Others could also ask you for your credentials. These hackers may use your sensitive information to make monetary gains or, in extreme cases, to launch more sophisticated cyber-attacks on a company or organization you might be affiliated with.

Although catfish can be found in large numbers, and their intentions can vary from playful to malicious, it is possible to deal with them by learning how to protect yourself.

Here are some ways to protect yourself and your information from potential catfish.

1. Do background checks

With the help of services such as InstantCheckmate, you can do a name search and an online background check. This will allow you to see the social media profiles of individuals and news articles that could contain their names. You can verify additional details such as their workplace, their origin, their friends, etc. after the initial search. You can verify that the person they claim to be is consistent with the information on the internet.

2. Be aware of the signs that you are being catfished

It may be challenging to determine if you are being catfished if the catfish’s description has been thorough and detailed. The catfish’s profile was created only to target specific people. They may not have many friends or followers. Catfish might not want to speak or video chat, avoid meeting up in person or even ask for money. These are all indicators that you may be being catfished.

3. Don’t share your personal data

It can be dangerous to share personal information with strangers. You could be being purged if someone you meet online asks for your personal information such as your address, contact information, or account details.

If someone asks you for your password under the pretense of an emergency, it’s a significant sign that something is wrong. Another red flag is asking for personal information. This behavior is not normal and should be alarming.

4. Don’t trust people you don’t know

It would help if you were cautious when receiving messages, correspondence, or friend requests from people you don’t know. Treat online conversations as you would real-life conversations. It’s fine to make new friends and interact with people online. However, it is important to be careful and watch out for the aforementioned catfishing signs.

5. Ask specific questions

Ask them questions only those with the reported background of catfishers if you suspect someone is doing it. Ask about their origins, such as where they live or what they do. Be wary if they are hesitant to answer your questions or avoid answering them.

6. Reverse image search can be used to identify fake profiles photos

Fake profiles and images are common on social media. You can use a reverse image search to find counterfeit images if you are unsure of someone you are chatting with online. You can also confirm the authenticity of a photo by looking at the original and similar images.

Conclusion

Catfishing can cause financial loss, heartbreak, misuse or abuse of your data, and heartbreak and financial loss. These tips will help you avoid falling prey to potential catfish looking for your money or sensitive information on the internet.