As if catfishing wasn’t bad enough, new reports find that dating app users need to be aware of a new phenomenon called “voicefishing.”
In order to crack down on catfishing, dating apps like Bumble and Hinge have a verification feature that prompts users to take a selfie to prove their identity. Unverified accounts may be using stolen or fake photos, warning users to swipe left or stay away.
Hinge has recently added a voice note option to its in-app messaging feature, where users can send an audio message in lieu of regular text.
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In a recent study conducted by the app, Hinge found that half of its users have become less attracted to a match after hearing the sound of their voice. Data also found that nearly two-thirds of Hinge users say “voice is an important factor in determining whether they like someone.”
Because of this, there seems to be a rise in behavior among dating app users that involves faking an accent or the tone of their voice.
Relationship expert Carly Smith says that “voice fishing” is when someone” puts on a fake accent or choice of dialect in the attempt to impress their potential matches.”
Smith says that the goal is to sound more “desirable or sexy than they naturally do” to impress potential dates.
“We all know some accents stand out more than others,” said relationship expert and co-founder of dating app Bare, Gillian Myhill. “But if it’s meant to really hoodwink who you’re talking to and not just a bit of fun voiceplay, it can be quite dangerous.”