Your high school acquaintances are coming after you—along with former co-workers, one-time neighbors, and that guy you spoke to briefly at a gas station in 2002.

It’s fun to reconnect with people from the past but not everyone is sincerely interested in getting to know you again (or even for the first time). Some just want to snoop into your life. Others want to use your friend list to connect to others. Still others pester you to “like” their pet projects. Some fragile egos are trying to collect 1,000 or more friends to boost their self esteem.

Let’s not forget the random weirdos, either!

Here are common characteristics all phony Facebook friends share. I think any are grounds for a swift click of the “unfriend” button.

Not responding. If you accept a friend request and send a brief email (“Hey, Tom, great to hear from you. What’s going on?”), isn’t it common courtesy to respond? Or are they just looking through your photos and sending friend requests to your sister?

Never interacting. “Friend collectors” are notorious for this behavior. Once you accept their friend request they forget they know you. No thumbs up? No comments? While it’s natural you’ll interact with some people more than others, what’s the point of connecting on Facebook if you never interact? Pointless.

Immediately asking for a favor or sale. Rude.

Obviously building their “online presence”. You know the types. They’ll “friend” people because they think it makes them look better. I give these folks a chance but if they never respond, never interact, or ask for a sale they’re off my friend list. These people are shallow and/or insufferable.

Don’t feel bad about unfriending, blocking, or unsubscribing from phony Facebook friends. Being “Facebook friends” isn’t the same as being “real friends”, but even so, you don’t need to let others access a glimpse into your personal life without giving in return. Say goodbye to “fair weather” Facebook friends and you’ll enjoy your online experience even more.

Facebook will be the topic for the next few posts—enjoy!