After sleepless nights of texting and dreams of wedding bells, some Tinder users are met with requests for money, empty promises, or even worse: threats. 

Sounds dramatic, but it could happen to you, too. Don’t worry: you can take a few steps to spot the red flags and outsmart your catfish before it gets that far. 

So, what are the signs that your Tinder match might be a catfish?

1. Their profile has only a few photos, and they feel off

Not having the perfect set of pictures is normal, but if your Tinder match has just 1 or 2 pictures, and they all feel fake, run.

• Photos that have been altered;
• Stock images;
• Low-quality photos that look like they’ve been taken by a pro;
• Pictures of known people.

2. They don’t have the verification checkmark

Tinder’s verification process is straightforward, allowing users to prove their pictures match their faces. In most cases, it’s not mandatory, only highly suggested. 

It can become obligatory if the user’s profile is suspicious. In those cases, rejecting profile verification can lead to limited access or a ban.

If your match isn’t verified, refuses to verify it, or gets banned several times, they may be hiding their true identity. The checkmark doesn’t guarantee authenticity, but it lowers the chances of getting scammed.

3. There are multiple profiles with similar photos or info

Some Tinder scammers create multiple accounts to increase the chances of tricking more people, because why target just one or two when you can go after many? 

So, if you spot accounts with identical photos and similar info, block & report them.

4. Their job doesn’t match their age

Many Tinder catfishes love bragging, often ignoring reality. If your match claims to have a great job or impressive accomplishments, take a closer look. 

Ask yourself whether they’re genuinely high achievers or just exaggerating. For example, claiming to be a CEO at 20, or a surgeon at 23 might sound impressive, but it’s also nearly impossible. 

5. They don’t link anything on their profile

Tinder allows users to connect their Spotify, Instagram, and other platforms to make it easier for potential matches to see what they’re into and check compatibility. 

But scammers often skip this step altogether, or if they do provide information, it’s usually a new social media account with no following and very suspicious.

6. Their location seems off or changes constantly

Some Tinder profiles claim to be nearby, but once you start chatting, their story shifts—they suddenly live hours away. Then their profile location updates again…and again. 

This could mean they’re slipping up on their script, or they’re using location-changing tricks to get more matches in different cities. Lie or scam, the plot twist isn’t worth it. Swipe on.

7. Cliché opening lines

Let’s face it: most Tinder openers are cringe. Whether it’s a dad joke or a cheesy pickup line. 

But catfishers take it up a notch with overused compliments, instant flattery, or full-on love bombing. It might feel flattering at first, but know this is their way of making you fall for them.

8. Your conversations feel awkward

Sure, awkward pauses happen when chatting with someone new. But when there’s real chemistry, conversations usually flow. 

Tinder’s bio and description features are especially designed for users to share more about themselves, tell fun stories, and spark interesting and smooth conversations.

With catfishers, it’s a different story. They often follow a script, so if you say something unexpected, they’ll dodge it, change the topic, or respond with something vague.

9. They ask for your number or other socials immediately

You were told not to talk to strangers online, but did anyone warn you about sharing your phone number or social media? It’s a common scheme used by catfishes.

They’ll say things like, “I don’t use this app much”, or “Let’s talk somewhere more comfortable”. In reality, scammers want to move off Tinder fast, because if Tinder catches on, poof…their account gets banned. 

But dodging a ban isn’t the only reason they want your info; more on that below.

10. They refuse to “Face to Face”

Tinder offers video calling within the app called Face to Face. It helps users feel safe and comfortable without rushing off to another platform. 

So, if your match consistently comes up with excuses to avoid video calls, that’s a major red flag. If they’re always too busy, too shy, or claim their camera’s broken, that’s very suspicious. 👀

Tinder’s most common scams

– Underage scam

Some Tinder scammers target those who enjoy chatting with younger users, often around 19 or 20. At first, everything may seem perfectly fine—nothing appears out of the ordinary.

But after a while, you might receive a message claiming that your match is actually underage, and threatening to report you to the authorities.

The twist? To avoid being reported, they demand money. The scammer will continue to pressure you for money as long as they can get away with it.

– Emotional/Romantic Scam

Sometimes, people filled with insecurities and loneliness register on Tinder with the hopes of finding a friend, a lover, or a bankomat. 

However, they put pictures of other people, and just like that, they begin the journey of a catfish. As swiping right becomes more and more usual, relationships grow without ever leaving Tinder.

Tips and tricks to outsmart a Tinder catfish

Getting ready to dive into Tinder? Before you start swiping, check out these tips to help you spot the difference between a real match and a catfish in disguise.

1. Reverse image search 

If you have the slightest suspicion that your Tinder match is a scammer, search their picture. If you want a free and quick option use Google Images, if you want an in-depth scan, use ProFaceFinder for just $4.95. 

With ProFaceFinder, you’ll get fast results, access to sources, and a definitive answer whether your match is a catfish or not—yes, even if they use AI-generated pictures.

2. Ask specific questions spontaneously

Find what they like on their profile and ask questions about them out of nowhere. E.g., if they say they love movies: 

• Which movie is your favorite?, 
• Do you remember this scene? 

Or travelling: 

• What’s a travel story you’ll never forget?
• What did you like about the last place you visited?

Avoid yes/no questions, and instead ask questions that require them to talk more. You can analyze their answers. If they give vague answers, slip on their script or become defensive, it’s time to start swiping again!

3. Don’t share your phone number

Most Tinder catfishes will ask for your number soon after matching.

Some push for it within a few messages, while others wait a few days—but it almost always happens. 

Once you share your number, it can easily be searched on certain websites, exposing info like your contacts, social media accounts, or even family members.

If the scammer can’t get you to willingly send money or start a relationship, they might switch to blackmail—threatening to leak your secrets or intimate photos to your friends and family.

4. Lie (yes, really)

Yup, you read that right. One thing Tinder scammers are experts at is lying, and sometimes, you’ll have to do the same to protect yourself and to test them.

For example: if a scammer claims they live near you (even though their profile says otherwise), casually make up a fake location and see if they pretend to be from there too. Easy trap.

Other things you should definitely lie about—or simply keep to yourself—include:

• Personal info: social security numbers, credit cards, phone number.
• Family matters: names, where they work or study, anything detailed.
• Location: where you live, work, or frequent.

5. Educate yourself on the matter

Sometimes, you get so attached that the red flags practically shout at you, and yet, you still can’t see them. Even getting advice from friends or family might not be enough to make you see things clearly. So, what can you do?

• Research Scammers:

Look into common scammer behaviors. What do their profiles usually look like? What phrases do they often use? What are their typical tactics?

• Read Victim Stories:

Check out stories from people who’ve been scammed. Did they think they had a real connection? Does their experience sound familiar?

• Make a Scammer / Not-Scammer List:

List out features that sound suspicious based on what you’ve learned, and compare them to behaviors that seem genuine.

For example: Scammer: Refuses to video call.

Not a scammer: Sends casual photos without hesitation.

Then, analyze the list—see which side has more points. That will help you make a more informed decision.

• Share Your Story on Reddit or Other Socials:

It’s optional, but sharing your experience on platforms like Reddit can be really helpful. You’ll hear about other people’s experiences, how they got tricked, and how they managed to escape the scam. You’re not alone!

6. Don’t give in

If you’re just starting to talk to someone, especially if they seem like a potential catfish. Avoid sharing personal information, money, or getting too emotionally attached. If it’s already done, it’s time to take a step back.

Catfishers may resort to threats, blackmail, or online stalking to manipulate you, but don’t give in. The longer you engage, the longer they’ll keep asking for money or other favors.

What to do:

1. Report their profile immediately.
2. Stop all communication—don’t reply to their messages.
3. Talk to someone you trust or report them to higher authorities.

Remember, their goal is to exploit your trust. Protect yourself and don’t fall into their trap.