Winnipeg police warn of ‘catfishing’ on dating sites

WINNIPEG — Police are warning people using online dating sites to be wary of potential catfishing incidents.

Catfishing is a term used to describe when someone is lured into an online relationship by using a fake profile.

“Some indications are that as many as one in ten profiles may be fake,” Winnipeg police said in a news release.

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Users of these sites are warned to exercise caution and take safety measures when meeting people met online.

Safety tips provided by police:

• Do some research; thoroughly vet the sites you plan to use.
• Practice anti-fraud strategies; if it seems too good to be true, it likely is.
• Be cautious about sharing personal information early on.
• Be aware of personal risks. Initial meetings should be in a public place.
• Trust your instincts.
• Tell a friend or family member about whom and where you are meeting, including the person’s contact information.
• Set up a safety check-in with someone you trust for after your meeting.
• Scammers may use these sites to meet potential victims.
• Be wary of requests for money.

Additional safety tips can be found here.