More Than Just a “Bad” Online Experience: Risk Factors and Characteristics of Catfishing Fraud Victimization

Snyder, Jamie A. ; Golladay, Katelyn (2024) — Deviant Behavior

DOI: 10.1080/01639625.2024.2416071

Synopsis

This study examines the relatively underexplored area of catfishing victimization—cases where individuals are deceived online but not necessarily defrauded financially. Using survey data from 1,511 social media and dating app users, the research analyzes patterns of deception and risk factors that increase susceptibility to catfishing.

Findings show that 44% of respondents had been catfished in the past five years, highlighting the prevalence of this form of online deception. Common characteristics of catfishing cases included:

The catfish initiating first contact.

A short communication duration before deception became apparent.

Requests for money, even if not always successful.

The study applies the lifestyles/routine activities theory (LRAT) and self-control theory to assess risk factors. Both online behaviors (such as app usage habits and engagement with strangers) and offline behaviors (including social routines and personal choices) were found to shape vulnerability. These results suggest that LRAT, traditionally applied to offline victimization, is also effective for explaining catfishing risk in digital contexts.

The article concludes with policy and prevention implications, recommending awareness campaigns and risk-mitigation strategies tailored to online dating and social media users. By identifying behavioral risk markers and highlighting the role of self-control, the study provides insights for both individuals and platforms to reduce catfishing victimization.

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