UK’s open relationship dating circles<\/a> so you can keep your connections genuine and your time well-spent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat Is Catfishing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Catfishing is when someone creates a fake online identity or misrepresents themselves to form relationships under false pretenses. They might be after money, attention, or other personal gains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sadly, catfishers pop up on all kinds of dating apps, including those geared toward non-traditional or open relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let’s look at some ways to stave these bad players off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Meet Quickly \u2014 Don\u2019t Drag It Out<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You usually shouldn\u2019t chat online for more than two or three weeks without meeting in person (or at least setting up a video call). Most folks who are serious about meeting will make an effort. If the other person keeps stalling, there\u2019s a good chance they have no intention of meeting at all, which can be a major red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even if they aren\u2019t catfishing, delaying endlessly isn\u2019t a great sign. Someone who can\u2019t or won\u2019t make time for you is often not worth pursuing, and if they\u2019re a catfisher, they obviously can\u2019t meet you face to face without exposing the ruse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hear the Voice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Catfishers often avoid voice notes or phone calls. Some may have gotten creative, but most will try to dodge anything that could reveal their true identity. Sending quick voice messages or asking for a brief phone call early on is a good way to weed out those who aren\u2019t genuine. If they make excuses or vanish at the mention of a voice call, that\u2019s a clear warning sign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Request Video Responses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you want an extra layer of verification, ask for short video clips or a video chat. You can frame it as excitement\u2014\u201cI\u2019d love to see you!\u201d, instead of an interrogation. Real, authentic people in open relationships are generally open to connecting via video. Catfishers, however, tend to run out of excuses pretty quickly when a camera is involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re exploring multiple-partner dynamics, request video chats with everyone involved. Make it friendly and fun, but note if anyone consistently refuses. That reluctance could mean they\u2019re hiding something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do They Look Too Good to Be True?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Trust your gut. If you think someone seems impossibly perfect – perfect photos, perfect hobbies, perfect background – they might be. Look for obvious signs of overly polished or heavily filtered pictures, or contradictory details in their stories. A slight sense of \u201cthis doesn\u2019t add up\u201d is usually worth investigating further. This may feel a bit sad, of course, but the reality is, you need to protect yourself first and foremost. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Photos – Get \u2019Em Verified<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It may feel silly, but asking for a random photo request – something like a picture of them holding a spoon upside down – can help. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s a near-impossible image for a catfisher to find on Google or edit convincingly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plus, it lets them know you\u2019re on the lookout for catfishers, which might be enough to deter them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You’re aiming to place some pressure on them which in turn likely makes them find an easier target. The more hoops, the less motivation the catfisher will have with their grand scheme. They rely on easy targets so make yourself a difficult target. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to Do if You Suspect Catfishing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you start to feel like something\u2019s off – maybe they avoid calls, have inconsistent stories, or refuse to send a quick selfie – take note. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, trust your instincts. If the other person can\u2019t or won\u2019t verify who they are, consider cutting ties. A genuine person should understand your concern, especially in the open relationship dating world where honesty is crucial. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Avoid sharing any personal or financial information<\/strong> with someone you can\u2019t validate. This is ultra important no matter what website you’re connecting with others on! Believe it, things can descend quickly, just ask this woman.<\/p>\n\n\n\n