How RedFlag Works
RedFlag uses advanced AI to detect manipulation and persuasion tactics in text — helping you recognize patterns that are often invisible in the moment.
Paste the conversation
Copy and paste a message, email, text thread, or any written communication you want to analyze. The more context you provide, the more accurate the analysis.
AI analyzes for manipulation patterns
Our AI — powered by Claude — scans the text for over a dozen known manipulation and persuasion tactics, evaluating both the language used and the underlying psychological dynamics.
Get a manipulation score + breakdown
You receive a score from 0–100, a list of detected tactics, a plain-language explanation, and (on paid plans) suggested next steps and example responses.
Decide with clarity
Use the insights to respond thoughtfully, set boundaries, or simply understand what's happening — without second-guessing yourself.
Tactics We Detect
Gaslighting
Making you question your own memory, perception, or sanity. "That never happened" or "You're too sensitive."
Guilt-Tripping
Using guilt to control behavior. "After everything I've done for you…" designed to create emotional obligation.
False Urgency
Artificial time pressure to prevent careful thinking. "You need to decide right now" when there's no real deadline.
Fear Mongering
Exaggerating threats or consequences to override rational thinking and push you toward a desired action.
Love Bombing
Overwhelming flattery and affection used to gain trust quickly, often followed by control or withdrawal.
DARVO
Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender — a pattern where the manipulator becomes the "real victim."
Silent Treatment
Weaponizing silence or withdrawal as punishment to force compliance or emotional capitulation.
Moving the Goalposts
Constantly shifting expectations so you can never "win," keeping you in a perpetual state of trying to please.
Projection
Accusing you of the very behaviors they engage in — "You're the controlling one" from someone who is controlling.
Triangulation
Bringing in third parties — real or invented — to create jealousy, insecurity, or competitive dynamics.
Baiting
Deliberately provoking a reaction, then using your response as evidence of your "irrationality" or wrongdoing.
Negging
Backhanded compliments or subtle put-downs designed to lower confidence and increase your need for approval.
Understanding Your Score
Low — Little to no manipulation detected
The communication appears straightforward and healthy. Minor persuasion (normal in any conversation) may be present.
Moderate — Some concerning patterns
A few manipulation tactics were detected. Worth paying attention to patterns over time — context matters.
High — Clear manipulation tactics present
Multiple tactics identified. This communication is likely designed to undermine your autonomy or judgment.
Severe — Strong manipulative intent
Significant manipulation detected across multiple dimensions. Trust your instincts — consider seeking support.
Frequently Asked Questions
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