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Someone creates fake accounts impersonating you — using your name, photos, and personal details to damage your reputation, harass others in your name, or create confusion.
What You Might Notice
People tell you about accounts or messages 'from you' that you didn't create or send
Friends receive messages from someone pretending to be you.
Fake profiles using your photos and name appear on social media or dating sites
Your identity is being used without your consent.
You're blamed for things the impersonator said or did
People are angry at you for things you didn't do.
What You Can Do
Report impersonation accounts to the platform immediately
All major platforms have dedicated impersonation reporting tools.
Notify your contacts
Let people know about the fake accounts so they're not deceived.
Document the fake accounts
Screenshot profiles, messages, and any damage caused.
Report to police
Impersonation for the purpose of harassment is a criminal offence.
Important: This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances — particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts. Always consider your physical safety first.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Creating fake accounts impersonating victim to damage their reputation, relationships, or employment. Fake accounts may send messages to victim's contacts, post inappropriate content, engage in harmful activities, or create the appearance that victim is behaving erratically or antisocially.
Impersonation Reporting Report fake accounts to platform using impersonation reporting process.
SAFE-M-0082
Network Notification Inform contacts of fake accounts and request verification through trusted channels.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0073
Contact Reports of Impersonation Messages Contacts report receiving messages from accounts impersonating target.
SAFE-D-0074
Fake Account Discovery Profiles using target's name, photos, or information discovered.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.