“Not everyone who says ‘Hey babe 💕’ is who they claim.”
🎭 It Starts So Innocently…
Someone messages you. They’re funny. Charming. They seem sweet. They ask how your day’s going and call you “babe” in their second message. They hype your selfies and stay up late texting you. You feel seen.
But something feels… off.
And that little feeling in your gut? It’s not drama. It’s your early warning system.
Because not everyone online is who they say they are—and today, we’re learning to spot fake friends, catfishers, and manipulative profiles before they get in too deep.
🚩 Red Flags: Spot Them Fast
Here are the signs that someone might not be legit:
- They get too close too fast — Compliments, pet names, and “I feel like we’ve known each other forever” energy in the first few days.
- They avoid video calls or voice chats — There’s always a reason their camera is “broken” or they’re “too shy.”
- They use overly edited or too-good-to-be-true photos — Reverse search their profile pics. Fake profiles often steal model photos.
- They ask for personal info or money — Even “just your birthday” or “a quick $5” can be a setup.
- They guilt you for not replying quickly — Real friends respect your time. Manipulators make you feel bad for having boundaries.
🧠 Catfishing Isn’t Just a TV Thing
Fake friends online can do serious emotional damage. They build trust, make you feel special—and then they manipulate, scam, or ghost you when it hurts most.
And it’s not always about money. Sometimes it’s attention. Control. Screenshots. Secrets. Access.
You don’t owe anyone access to your heart or your private life—especially not a stranger with a cute profile picture.
🔍 How to Verify Someone Online
You’re allowed to ask questions. In fact—you should.
Here’s a quick vibe check list:
- Google their username — See if it connects to real profiles or sketchy mentions.
- Ask for a voice note or video message — Even one sentence helps verify they’re real.
- Do a reverse image search — Tools like TinEye or Google Lens help spot stolen profile pics.
- Look at their social footprint — New account? Only selfies? No tagged friends? 🚩
❤️ Emotional Safety Matters Too
This isn’t just about avoiding scams. It’s about protecting your emotional energy.
Fake friends lovebomb you. Real friends check in gently.
Fake friends manipulate your time. Real friends support your space.
Fake friends make it all about them. Real friends ask about you and listen.
🧠 Cysecsis’ Top Tips for Online Friendships
- Trust your gut — Even if you can’t explain why.
- Say no without guilt — You’re not being mean. You’re being safe.
- Set boundaries — Don’t feel pressured to reply 24/7.
- Keep private info private — Full name, address, school, routines = nope.
- If it feels off, talk to someone — A real-life friend, trusted adult, or even Cysecsis 😉
💬 Real Talk
Fake friends want access. Real friends want connection.
Online friendships can be amazing—but only if they’re based on truth, respect, and safety. You deserve that kind of connection. Nothing less.
