When you think of Mississippi, you might imagine charming Southern landscapes, rich history, and of course, catfish. And not just any catfish—the state has been leading the nation in catfish production since the late 1980s. This is, of course, the actual fish, known for its delicious flavor and important role in Southern cuisine.

But when we talk about “catfishing” in a different context, things take a turn for the more sinister. In the digital world, “catfishing” refers to the deceptive practice of creating a fake online persona to trick someone into a relationship. And in this arena, the spotlight shifts to a different state altogether.

A recent study reveals that California takes the top spot in the nation for money lost to online romance scams, with a staggering $184 million reported. Florida, in contrast, lags far behind with $70 million. California’s substantial lead might be linked to various factors, including its large population and extensive online activity.

To put the scale into perspective, about eight out of every 100,000 people in California have reported falling victim to these types of scams. While Alaska has a higher rate of such reports, its total monetary losses are significantly lower, standing at just over $3.5 million.

So, why does California lead the pack in romance scam losses? While numerous factors could contribute to this, one glaring issue might be a lack of skepticism—or what some might call gullibility. It’s all too easy for scammers to exploit emotional vulnerabilities, especially in a state known for its vibrant and diverse online dating scene.

Fortunately, there’s a straightforward way to help protect yourself from falling victim to these scams: request a video call. It’s a simple but effective way to ensure that the person you’re communicating with is who they say they are. While it might not eliminate every risk, it’s a crucial step in verifying the authenticity of a potential romantic interest.

So next time you’re online and feeling a spark with someone new, don’t be afraid to ask for a video call. It could be the key to avoiding the pitfalls of digital catfishing and keeping your heart—and your wallet—safe.