To Catch a Catfish: An Online Dating Predator Exposed

Dr. Phil’s guests say they fell victim to a catfish — a person who creates a false ID on the Internet in the hopes of luring people into romantic relationships. Devon says she fell in love with a man named David, whom she met online, and then spent nearly three years planning their future together — without ever meeting him in person. She says they talked and texted every day for hours and exchanged photos, but every time they attempted to meet, David always had an excuse to reschedule. Although Devon was in love, she says David was controlling and manipulative, and she started cutting herself to cope. Then, a phone call changed everything — Devon says she was shocked to learn that David wasn’t who he said he was. And, Lauren, Bobbi and Kelly say they also fell for the same man and spent months establishing an online relationship — one that never culminated in a face-to-face meeting. The women say an estimated 26 women have fallen victim to this alleged catfish’s schemes. What were the signs that they missed? And what would drive a person to carry out such a deception? Learn the online dating red flags to look out for. Plus, you won’t believe who the alleged catfish really is!