Online support group launched for victims of catfishing

The 2 Johnnies revealed in podcasts that a serial catfisher was in contact with more than 30 men, including host Johnny B O’Brien. Picture: Ruth Medjber 

A mental health charity has launched an online support group for people who have been victims of so-called 'catfishing'.

It follows a series of widespread conversations surrounding the topic, sparked by the recent release of part three of the 2 Johnnies GAA catfish saga in Ireland.

Catfishing refers to the act of impersonating another individual, using fake photos and stories.

The Tipperary duo made headlines back in 2022, following the release of two podcast episodes in which they recalled the details of a serial catfisher. The perpetrator is believed to have been in contact with more than 30 men, including co-host Johnny ‘B’ O’Brien.

In the latest episode in the series, released on January 13, the pair revealed an update on the "story of the GAA catfish". The pair said they had been made aware of countless other men who were fooled by the infamous catfisher, including one man who believed he was in a relationship with the fake profile for several months.

The charity Turn2Me’s latest support group aims to help participants navigate their experience, while offering guidance from counsellors. The group will also give victims the opportunity to connect with others who have experienced similar situations.

The first session, taking place on Wednesday, February 5, at 7pm, will provide victims with a safe, confidential and supportive space for anyone deceived by false online identities.

A sociologist lecturing in UCC, Melissa Meyer, said the motivations behind catfishing could “vary significantly”.

This can range from exploitative tactics, such as those seen in romance frauds targeting vulnerable individuals who are lured into sending money, or more personal reasons, such as the “desire for escapism”, or the need to assume a different identity in an online space.

However, in many cases, catfishes are believed to act on behalf of insecurity, often with an unhealthy need for attention or emotional validation, she added.

Dr Meyer said although this may seem rewarding or addictive for those engaging in it, it could also prove to be “emotionally draining” and quite a time-consuming endeavour.

She said as this deception deepened, it often led to the fabrication of further lies, leading to more stress and anxiety.

“In many cases, catfish may rationalise their actions by blaming the victim, accusing them of being gullible or shallow for not recognising the deception,” she added.

Financial extortion

The negative implications of these actions can not only impact the immediate victims of this deception, but often can include financial consequences for the victim, where financial extortion is involved.

Dr Meyer said many people who turn to online dating are already in a vulnerable position, and seek connection in a space that “feels safer than in-person interactions”. 

This can often result in people lowering their defences and sharing intimate information more quickly than they might in a real-life scenario, leading to an increased risk of exploitation.

The long-term effects of these actions can be “profound and enduring”, leaving lasting scars that can affect future relationships and personal wellbeing, Dr Meyer added.

She appealed to the public for further activism and public awareness in helping to “break the cycle of power” and control the catfish may possess long after the deception has ended.

She refers to the awareness spread following the 2 Johnnies podcast as “very important”, describing it as “honourable”.

Fiona O’Malley, chief executive of Turn2Me, said the support group would act as a space where people can heal, connect with others who truly understand, and learn healthy coping mechanisms.

“No one should have to go through this alone,” she added.

Those interested can sign up for the free support group here.