I fell hook line and sinker for a catfish.
Were there any warning signs that it was a catfish?
There were some, but I was so lonely that I ignored them.
You can never be too careful when talking to people online. It's best to be cautious until you have complete proof that the person you are talking to is actually who they claim to be.
Why are you so cynical and paranoid?
I don't think it's paranoid to be careful when dealing with people online. I think it's only right to make sure that you are talking to actual person someone claims to be online. There are a lot of dangerous people out there, and it's best to be safe rather than sorry.