Anna Rowe

I think it's an offence under the Angling Act...

Some types of catfishing might constitute a fraud but going on a date with a guy who was married, that's just bad luck.

If he got her into bed under a false identity etc then he has potentially committed a rape as the victim has potentially not given genuine consent. There maybe a need to change CPS guidance but there is no need for new legislation.

And this is exactly what my lawyers are arguing. If looked at correctly, consent legislation covers this. I hate the word rape but the fact is : A if I’d have known his intent I would not have consented. B He knows if he told me, I would not have consented. #sexbydeception

I am a strong believer in falsely obtained consent is not consent. The CPS and the Courts are not tough enough on this point but as you say the law does, in theory, already cover it. I see that as going beyond Catfishing though.

It absolutely does go beyond Catfishing. This is just a name given to people who hide behind a fake ID to commit crimes that use romance to initiate that crime. My petition was started due to police claiming this was not covered under consent. My lawyers disagree.

Where do you draw the line though? Almost everyone lies or exaggerates about some aspect of themselves during conversation with potential partners...