Dead Internet Theory: How to Spot Bots (and Prove You're Not One)

Bots now mimic real users. Here are the most common patterns — and how to share a trustworthy signal that you’re human.

The “Dead Internet Theory” is a popular way to describe something many people feel: online spaces are increasingly filled with automation, spam, and AI-generated personas.

Bot patterns you can recognize

• Profiles that never video-call, only text.
• Instant replies at all hours with generic language.
• Requests to move to another platform immediately.
• Unwillingness to answer a specific, time-bound question.

How to prove you're human

A time-bound verification link is a practical social signal. It’s not KYC, but it’s a strong anti-bot proof that you were present in front of a camera and microphone recently.