How do I know if someone is impersonating me online?

Search for duplicate accounts

Regularly search your name on major social platforms to look for accounts you didn't create. Impersonators often use your name with minor variations or similar profile pictures. Check lesser-known platforms too—they're easier targets.

Check profile details

Impersonator accounts typically have incomplete or inconsistent information compared to your real profiles. They may have recently created accounts, few real connections to your actual network, or suspicious activity patterns.

Unusual messages or complaints

If people message you claiming you contacted them, or you hear about posts in your name you didn't make, impersonation is likely. Friends or colleagues may alert you to fake accounts.

Where to look beyond social media

Impersonators create accounts on dating apps, freelance sites, marketplace platforms, and even dating or escort services using stolen photos and your identity. Search yourself on these platforms periodically.

What to do

Report fake accounts directly through each platform's impersonation reporting tool. Most platforms have specific processes for this. Document everything with screenshots. If the impersonator is harassing people or defrauding them, contact law enforcement. For persistent problems, consult a lawyer about cease-and-desist letters.