When we talk about outsmarting a catfish, we’re not talking about fishing—we mean those online scammers who pretend to be someone they’re not.

Most of us have come across a catfish at some point. They play their game well—until they slip up and get caught!

To stay ahead, you need to recognize their tactics and avoid their traps. One key rule? Don’t overshare personal details on social media or dating apps.

But before we see how to outsmart a catfish, let’s first understand the difference between spotting one and truly outwitting them.

The difference between Spotting vs. Outsmarting a Catfish

Spotting a catfish means recognizing their red flags and identifying their deceptive behavior. It’s about noticing the warning signs that signal you’re dealing with a fake.

Outsmarting a catfish, however, takes it a step further. It means not only recognizing them but also confronting them and shutting them down before they can take advantage of you.

In other words, when you outsmart a catfish, you beat them at their own game. Here’s exactly how to do it!

1. Do a Background Check

If you suspect someone might be a catfish, the first step is to dig deeper.

Use background-checking tools like the National Sex Offender Registry, SwindlerBuster, and Social Catfish to verify their identity.

Here’s how you can search for them:

• Enter their name and surname
• Add their age and gender
• Input their address (if available)
• Click Search

Alternatively, you can run a reverse image number search on Swindlerbuster to check if they’re linked to other social media profiles or dating apps. A quick check can reveal if they’re hiding behind a fake identity!

2. Detect the Red Flags of a Romance Scammer

While it’s important not to judge too quickly, catfishers often reveal themselves through their behavior. They may be overly affectionate too soon (love bombing) or use manipulative tactics to gain your trust.

Watch for these warning signs:

• They rush into romance and use sweet words excessively.
• Their messages have poor grammar or broken language.
• They avoid deep conversations but quickly ask personal or inappropriate questions.

To test them, mirror their language—use affectionate words and bring up future plans (“I wish,” “What if,” “I will”) to see their reaction.

If they get uncomfortable or try to divert the topic, it’s a red flag. If they push for a meetup too fast or ask for personal details, it’s time to confront them.

3. Ask for a Local Photo & Verify It

Catfishers often use fake or stolen photos. Their profile might seem too perfect or just average, but their pictures usually don’t match their story.

To test them, ask for a photo of a local landmark in their area. If they hesitate or send a suspicious image, it’s time to dig deeper.

Here’s how to verify the photo:

1. Go to Google.com
2. Click on the Lens icon in the search bar
3. Upload the image they sent
4. Click Search to see if it appears online

If the photo is from the internet, you’ve caught them in a lie!

4. Push for FaceTime & Ask More Questions

A real person will have no problem video calling, but a catfish will do anything to avoid it. They want to keep the illusion alive without revealing their real identity.

Here’s how to test them:

• Suggest moving the conversation to FaceTime or video calls.
• Send audio messages and see if they respond the same way.
• Ask more personal questions to gauge their consistency.

If they keep making excuses or dodging calls, that’s a major red flag. Confront them directly—tell them you’re uncomfortable with their refusal and see how they react.

A real person will be open to communicating, while a catfish will keep running in circles!

5. Outsmart a Catfish by Using Their Own Tactics

Catfishers often love bomb—showering you with attention, pushing for personal details, and rushing to meet up. Flip the script and see how they react.

Here’s how:

• Match their energy—be overly eager and suggest meeting quickly.
• Ask for their phone number first, but give them a backup or burner number instead.
• Propose a public meeting and see if they agree.

If they hesitate, dodge your requests, or get defensive, they’re likely hiding something. If you do meet, bring a friend or have someone nearby for safety.

6. Test a Catfish by Moving to Other Apps

A real person won’t hesitate to chat on different platforms, but a catfish will avoid it. They rely on controlled environments where they can hide their identity.

Here’s how to test them:

• Ask to switch to Snapchat or Instagram. If they refuse, they’re likely hiding something.
• Use Snapchat to send casual photos—a meal, your city, or something random. Avoid showing your full face at first.
• Ask them to do the same. If they dodge or make excuses, it’s a red flag.

If they won’t move to another app or send real-time photos, block them and move on!

7. Be Careful with the Information You Share

To outsmart a catfish, keep your personal details strictly limited. Share only general stories that can’t be used against you later.

Instead of revealing too much, turn the tables and ask them detailed questions:

• “What was your favorite activity as a kid?”
• If they say they loved playing in the snow, follow up with “Where did you ski or play? What was it like?”

By pressing for specifics, you can catch them slipping. If their answers are vague or inconsistent, it’s a sign they’re not who they claim to be. Stay cautious and never overshare!

What to Say to a Catfisher?

Catching a catfish is one thing—outsmarting them is another. The best approach? Gather evidence first, then take action.

How to Handle a Catfish:

• If you confirm they’re a fake, just block them and move on—no need for a conversation.
• If you’ve shared personal information or photos, politely ask them to delete them. If they refuse, seek legal advice on how to protect yourself.
• Many catfishers use personal details for blackmail, so check your options legally to prevent them from spreading your info.

If You Were in a Relationship with a Catfish:

• Be direct and precise—no need to sugarcoat it.
• If you found their fake photos or number, call them out with something simple like:
  “Hey, I tried saving your number for WhatsApp, but another name pops up. Can you explain?”
• If they play the victim or try to flip the blame, ask for an explanation. If they dodge, block them immediately.

Final Thoughts

To outsmart a catfish, play their game smarter:

• Stay cautious and avoid oversharing.
• Be the one asking the questions.
• If you share childhood stories, keep them vague.
• Use reverse search tools to gather proof before confronting them.

Most importantly, not everyone online is a catfish—watch for red flags first, then use these tips to stay ahead!