The term catfishing is commonly used today to describe someone who creates a fake identity online often on dating platforms to deceive others. Whether for financial gain, emotional manipulation, or personal satisfaction, catfishing has become one of the most notorious online dating scams.
But have you ever wondered: Why is catfishing called catfishing? The answer is surprisingly metaphorical and rooted in a story that ties fish, faith, and human behavior together.
Let’s explore the origins of the term, how it evolved, and why it remains relevant in today’s digital world especially in online dating.
The Origin of “Catfishing”: A Tale from the Fishing Industry
The term “catfishing” became widely recognized after the release of the 2010 documentary “Catfish”, which followed Nev Schulman’s experience of being deceived by someone pretending to be someone else online. While the film sparked global interest in the phenomenon, the actual term comes from an old fishing anecdote.
In the documentary, a man tells a story about cod fish being shipped from Alaska to China. To keep the cod active during transport and preserve the quality of the meat, catfish were placed in the tanks with the cod. The catfish would chase the cod around, keeping them moving and preventing them from becoming sluggish or soft.
The storyteller likened this idea to people in real life some individuals keep others on their toes, add tension, mystery, or deception, much like catfish in a tank. Thus, someone who pretends to be someone else online, causing emotional or psychological disruption, was metaphorically labeled a “catfish.”
How the Term Became Digital
Although the fishing story gave the metaphor meaning, it was the rise of social media and online dating that gave catfishing its modern context.
With platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and dating apps like Tinder and Bumble, it became easier than ever to create fake profiles. A catfish might use stolen photos, fabricate life stories, and form online relationships under a false identity.
After the documentary’s success, MTV launched the popular series “Catfish: The TV Show”, where Nev Schulman helped others uncover the truth behind online relationships. This show cemented the term in everyday vocabulary and associated it permanently with online deception.
Why Do People Catfish?
There are many motives behind catfishing, and not all involve scams or money. Some reasons include:
- Loneliness or low self-esteem
- Escaping reality or trauma
- Exploring identity or gender anonymously
- Gaining emotional control or manipulation
- Financial scams or extortion
In romantic scenarios, catfish often play with the other person’s emotions, creating deep feelings, sometimes over months or years, without any intention of meeting in real life.
Signs You’re Being Catfished
If you’re navigating online dating, here are signs you might be dealing with a catfish:
- They refuse to video call or meet in person
- Their stories are vague or change frequently
- They use model-like photos that seem too perfect
- They avoid answering personal or detailed questions
- They fall in love quickly or become emotionally intense early on
- They ask for money, gifts, or help in emergencies
How to Protect Yourself from Catfishing
To stay safe while dating online:
- Reverse image search their profile photos using tools like Google or TinEye
- Ask to video chat early in the conversation
- Don’t share personal or financial details with someone you’ve never met
- Be skeptical of overly emotional stories or emergencies
- Talk to friends or family members for a second opinion
- Report suspicious profiles on dating platforms
If you’ve already fallen for a catfish or feel emotionally manipulated, don’t blame yourself. These individuals are often very convincing and experienced at deception. You can find recovery advice and emotional support at DatingAdvisory.org.
