By Abigail Philip David
It can sometimes be difficult to spot the difference between a single man and a married man pretending to be available. Unfortunately, some men go to great lengths to deceive women, especially if they believe their marital status will prevent them from getting what they want.
Here are five telltale signs a man may be hiding his marriage:
1. Suspicious Social Media Activity
One of the clearest red flags is how he behaves on social media. If his account is private, inactive, or if he refuses to connect with you online, it could mean he has something to hide.
For instance, I once dated someone who refused to follow me on Instagram. When I pushed him, he blocked me instead. Using a friend’s account, I later discovered he was married.
While some men may avoid posting about their spouses, subtle clues about their marital status can still appear on their profiles. If he avoids social media entirely or keeps his activity unusually restricted, be cautious.
2. Strange Video Call Patterns
Pay attention to where and when he video calls you. If he never calls you from his bedroom, living room, or anywhere that resembles a home, but instead always calls from his car, office, or outdoors, it might be a sign he’s married.
Some men may even call from home when their wives are away, but a lack of consistency is often a major warning.
3. Prefers Meeting in Private or Neutral Places
If he insists on meeting at hotels, lounges, or other neutral locations instead of inviting you to his home, it’s a clear sign he may be hiding something. Married men often keep their personal spaces off-limits to avoid exposing their family life.
A man who refuses to let you into his home is likely keeping you separate from his real life—another red flag to watch out for.
4. Claims He’s “Separated” or “Getting a Divorce”
Be cautious if he says he’s “separated” or “in the process of divorcing.” Many married men use this excuse to appear single when, in reality, they’re still committed to their spouses.
If he’s genuinely in the process of ending his marriage, he should wait until the divorce is finalized before pursuing a new relationship. It’s also worth noting that some men have even gotten their wives pregnant while claiming to be separated.
5. Excessive Secrecy with His Phone
Watch how he handles his phone. If he keeps it locked, hidden, or constantly out of your reach, it’s a sign he’s not being fully honest.
I once dated a man who always left the room to take certain calls. If he’s secretive about phone calls, messages, or refuses to let you see his screen, he could be hiding his wife or family.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Being observant and trusting your gut can help you avoid falling for someone who isn’t honest about their marital status. Always look for these signs and prioritize your emotional well-being.
