Catfishing

Catfishing refers to the practice of creating a fake online persona to deceive or manipulate someone into a romantic or sexual relationship. This typically involves using someone else's photos, fabricating personal information, and engaging in online interactions under this false identity. Catfishing can occur on social media platforms, dating apps, or any online communication channels.

Additional Information

Catfishing can have various motivations, including seeking attention, financial gain, or emotional fulfillment. It can lead to significant emotional distress for victims who develop genuine feelings for the fabricated persona. The term gained popularity after the 2010 documentary "Catfish" and the subsequent MTV series of the same name.

While not exclusively related to sexual interactions, catfishing often involves sexual content or romantic pursuits, making it relevant to discussions of online sexual behavior and safety. It's important to be aware of the potential for catfishing in online interactions and to practice caution when engaging with unknown individuals on the internet.