Which term is used to describe creating a false online identity?

The term "catfishing" specifically refers to the act of creating a false online identity, often with the intent to deceive someone into a romantic relationship or to exploit them emotionally. This involves not only using a fake name but also typically presenting a fabricated persona, including attractive photos and backstories that can lead to significant emotional investment from the victim.

Catfishing tends to be associated with social media and online dating platforms, where individuals might create profiles using images and information that do not belong to them. The aim is often to engage in a misleading relationship, making this term uniquely appropriate for describing the scenario in question.

The other terms presented have different meanings. Online impersonation involves fraudulently taking on the identity of another individual without their consent but can be broader than catfishing. Identity theft refers specifically to the unauthorized use of someone’s personal information, typically for financial gain, which does not always involve creating a false online identity. Lastly, phishing is about tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, usually through deceptive emails or websites, rather than fabricating a persona to build an emotional connection.