Chantel Brink

Chantel Brink

February 15, 2025

Top 3 Signs Someone May Cheat, According to a Relationship Specialist

Infidelity has been a topic stemming from the start of civilization. adultery has inspired iconic songs, famous movies, and even historical turning points through the ages. It comes as no surprise then that to this day, the signs of cheating are often debated. For those concerned about their partners and the potential betrayal they could face, one needs to be able to identify the signs.

Insights from a Relationship Specialist

It comes as no surprise then that to this day, the signs of cheating are often debated.
Image Credit: @ask_kimberly TikTok

Kimberly Moffit, a relationship expert took to TikTok to offer a few basic, but valuable insights that she has found common through her work with clients. “I have seen hundreds of clients who have gotten cheated on, so I know exactly what to look for,” Kimberly explained. She has specifically pointed out the three top behavioral red flags that could signal signs of cheating.

A Sudden Focus on Physical Appearance

Described as the peacock effect, partners may display a sudden interest in improving their physical appearance.
Image Credit: Pexels

Described as the peacock effect, partners may display a sudden interest in improving their physical appearance. They may for example suddenly join a gym, create a new wardrobe, and possibly purchase fresh cologne. This often signals signs of cheating where a partner may want to improve on their physical appearance. Specifically to become more attractive to someone new.

So all of a sudden, they start going to the gym, or wearing cologne, or buying new underwear for themselves,” Kimberly shared. She added, “Essentially, they’re back on the market.” If previously absent, a sudden shift in appearance could very likely be considered a warning of infidelity.

Overprotectiveness Around Their Phone

Phone guarding is another common sign of cheating.
Image Credit: Pexels

Phone guarding is another common sign of cheating. Valuing your privacy is one thing, it’s another issue altogether when someone is overly protective of their phone. When someone is cheating, their phone is literally their lifeline,” she explained. Their phone is a tool to communicate with the other person. This could be texts, calls, or direct messages that they want to keep hidden from their partners.

If they’re cheating on you, there’s almost a 100 percent chance they are texting and exchanging DMs with this person,” Kimberly emphasized. “And they know, like, the minute you get your hands on that phone or see something on their phone, it’s over.” If your partner displays anxiety or over-protectiveness of their phone, this may be a warning.

Read More: Woman Reveals Two Major Signs a Man Is Cheating, and People Agree

Unexplained Time Away

They may use frequent work trips or random absences as strategies to get away.
Image Credit: Pexels

The third most common red flag is how they manage their time. People who are performing the act of adultery need to create the space necessary to cheat. They may use frequent work trips or random absences as strategies to get away. “Traveling for work is the biggest way that cheaters accomplish this time and space,” she said. “Whether they’re actually traveling for work or pretending to travel for work.”

Overloading with Details

Cheaters often also tend to provide overly detailed stories about their daily encounters as a diversion tactic.
Image Credit: Pexels

Cheaters often also tend to provide overly detailed stories about their daily encounters as a diversion tactic. Kimberly elaborated, “When they’re traveling, and you ask them how their day was, they’re going to give you some big, long, lengthy explanation about what they did. They do this to placate you. They want to overload you with information so that you’ll stop asking questions.” It may be worth further investigation if you suspect things coming across as too rehearsed.

Recognizing the Signs

If you have your suspicions, it may be worth sitting them down and having an open discussion about your feelings.
Image Credit: Pexels

Not every person displaying these behaviors is necessarily cheating, but they are commonly seen in infidelity and should not be overlooked. If you have your suspicions, it may be worth sitting them down and having an open discussion about your feelings. Trust is , after all, the foundation of any strong relationship.

Read More: Private Investigator Reveals Four Red Flags of a Cheating Partner