No one wants to sit around imagining that their boyfriend might be cheating. Unfortunately, it’s a reality that does occur—and knowing it’s common doesn’t make it hurt any less. If anything, it can make the pain even deeper.

Cheating is one of the most damaging and cowardly acts in a relationship. Some people simply aren’t equipped to handle commitment, so instead of being honest, they choose to be unfaithful.

While most cheating partners go to great lengths to hide their behavior, guilt has a way of surfacing. Small mistakes and slip-ups can reveal the truth if you know what to look for.

That said, showing one or two of these signs doesn’t automatically mean your boyfriend is cheating. Stress, anxiety, or personal struggles can also cause unusual behavior. However, if several of these signs start appearing together, it may indicate something is wrong.

Below are some common signs that could suggest infidelity.

# He suddenly puts passwords on everything

If his phone, laptop, or social media never had passwords before and now everything is locked down, he may be trying to hide conversations or activity he doesn’t want you to see.

# He can’t explain where he’s been

Forgetting small details is normal, but consistently being unable to account for hours—or entire evenings—can be a red flag that he was somewhere he shouldn’t have been.

# He starts working late all the time

Occasional overtime is understandable, but if late nights become frequent without a raise, promotion, or extra pay, it’s worth questioning whether “work” is really where he’s spending his time.

# He smells like another woman’s perfume

Perfume doesn’t transfer from thin air. If he comes home smelling like a scent that isn’t yours, it could mean he was in very close contact with someone else.

# He hides or guards his text messages

If he panics when a message comes in or rushes to grab his phone, it may be because there’s something—or someone—he doesn’t want you to see.

# He starts accusing you of cheating

Sudden jealousy or unfounded accusations can be a form of projection. His own guilt may cause him to assume you’re doing what he’s actually doing.

# There are unexplained charges on shared accounts

Strange expenses—like dinners, gifts, or hotel charges you weren’t aware of—could indicate he’s spending money on someone else.

# He lies about his whereabouts

If you know he wasn’t where he claimed to be and he continues to insist otherwise, lying becomes a strong indicator of dishonesty. People rarely lie when they have nothing to hide.

# He suddenly becomes obsessed with his appearance

If he was once comfortable with himself but now hits the gym obsessively and monitors his looks, it could mean he’s trying to impress someone new—though self-improvement alone isn’t always a sign of cheating.

# He opens secret financial accounts

If he suddenly has a credit card or bank account you didn’t know about, it may signal secrecy. While there could be an innocent reason, hiding finances in a relationship should always be approached with caution.