The dangers of online deception: catfishing and why social media isn't always safe

We’re all guilty of spending hours endlessly scrolling through social media, comparing our lives to others, and even speaking to strangers online through dating apps … but social media can be an extremely dangerous space. Catfishing, whether that being edited photos or posing as a completely different person, is an extremely common form of online deception that is carried out for a multitude of reasons - ranging from a mild ego boost to more extreme, dangerous intentions. So, when you find yourself encapsulated in the world of TikTok and Tinder, be careful not to trust the wrong people…

Insecurity is a common motive behind catfishing online, as people drastically edit photos to create the ‘perfect aesthetic’. We all follow influencers who seem like they have the perfect lives … great wealth, success, and beauty. Whilst their manipulation of photos may derive from insecurity itself, it only breeds further insecurity and low self-esteem in their followers, as the pressure to adhere to beauty standards is already so prevalent today. From the Kardashians smoothing out their cellulite to Tana Mongeau sharpening her bone structure, catfishing sets unrealistic expectations of beauty and lifestyle, subsequently creating an unhealthy culture of comparison.

Alternatively, financial gain, revenge, and harassment are just some dangerous examples of why people may catfish online, which are commonly achieved through dating apps, with the creation of fake profiles leading to victims trusting strangers. I’m sure we all have a friend who has catfished themselves as a joke on Tinder to try and find a good match, but those who do this with more dangerous intentions can cause significant harm. Sadly, many people fall for their deception, believing they are in secure online relationships. Once this trust has been built, the catfish is able to manipulate their victim, fraudulently taking their money or convincing them to meet in person with darker intentions. Just like the Netflix show Tinder Swindler, where multiple women were conned out of millions of dollars after trusting someone they matched with, people are easily tricked into sharing details - which unfortunately happens too frequently. This is becoming increasingly common and proves that we must be more vigilant when using social media. 

There are many reasons why catfishing happens, and also many ways that online deception can occur. Look out for strangers having few friends on social media, no photos, or asking for money and personal details. Whatever the reason or method, catfishing can be extremely harmful to its victims: mentally, financially, and even physically.