So, you’ve moved on—or at least, you’re trying to. You’re focusing on yourself, scrolling through your feed, and BAM! Your ex suddenly starts showing up in your notifications. A like here, a comment there, maybe even a cryptic quote that suspiciously relates to your past relationship.
Coincidence? Maybe. But if you’re seeing these patterns pop up repeatedly, chances are, your ex is playing a little game of “Look at me! Notice me! Miss me!” on social media.
But how do you know for sure? Let’s dive into 25 telltale signs that your ex is craving your attention—and what you should (or shouldn’t) do about it.
1. They Start Liking Your Old Posts
If your ex suddenly starts liking that picture you posted six months ago of you at the beach, they’re not just randomly scrolling. They’re digging through your profile, reliving the past, and low-key hoping you notice.
Pro Tip: If you don’t want to engage, resist the urge to like one of their old posts back. That’s how the cycle begins.
2. They Watch Your Stories… Every. Single. Time.
Even when you post something random like “Just had a sandwich,” your ex is the first viewer. Coincidence? Nope. They want you to know they’re still keeping tabs on you.
3. They Post Things That Seem… Suspiciously About You
You know those deep quotes about “losing something precious” or “realizing too late what you had”? Yeah, they’re not just there for aesthetic. If your ex is posting dramatic, emotional captions that perfectly align with your past, they’re basically waving a virtual flag saying, “Hey, this is about YOU.”
4. They Start Commenting Again
At first, it’s subtle—a fire emoji 🔥 on your new profile pic, a casual “Nice shot!” on a group photo. They’re testing the waters to see if you’ll react.
5. The “Accidental” DM
Oh wow, a random meme from your ex just landed in your inbox. “Oops, meant to send that to someone else.” Sure, Jan. This is the social media equivalent of “accidentally” bumping into you at your favorite coffee shop.
6. They Get Extra Active Right After You Post
Ever notice that as soon as you post a fun picture, they suddenly start posting too? It’s a classic move—trying to remind you that they’re still out there, living their best life (or at least pretending to).
7. They Tag You in Nostalgic Throwbacks
Remember that trip you took together? That birthday party? Suddenly, they’re posting #TBTs and tagging you. It’s their way of subtly saying, “Hey, remember us?”
Pro Tip: If you’re trying to move on, you don’t have to engage. You can simply ignore, untag yourself, or—if it gets too much—block them.
8. The “Look How Happy I Am” Posts
A sudden flood of pictures showing them partying, traveling, or conveniently looking happier than ever? They might genuinely be having a good time—but if they weren’t this active before, it could be their way of saying, Look what you’re missing!
9. They React to Everything You Post
Love, laugh, fire, heart—every reaction emoji in the book starts appearing on your posts. It’s their way of engaging without actually talking to you.
10. The “Oops, I Didn’t Mean to Follow You Again” Move
You’re sure they unfollowed you months ago, but suddenly, they’re back? It’s not an accident. They want to see your content—and more importantly, they want you to notice they’re watching.
11. They Add You on a New Social Media Platform
They never cared about Twitter before, but now they’ve followed you there? New Snapchat request? That’s a strategic move.
12. They Post Inside Jokes Only You Would Get
That quote from your favorite movie? That obscure song lyric you both loved? It’s their way of subtly speaking to you without actually messaging you.
13. The Drunk Text (or DM)
A random “Hey…” at 2 AM? Classic. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, and suddenly, they just have to reach out.
14. They Ask Your Friends About You (and It Gets Back to You)
If your mutual friends are suddenly saying, “Hey, your ex was asking about you,” that’s a clear sign they’re still curious—and hoping you’ll hear about it.
15. The Mysterious “Sad Song” Playlist Update
They just updated their playlist with heartbreak songs that mirror your breakup? That’s not just for their own reflection—it’s for you to see.
16. They Try to Make You Jealous
Suddenly, they’re posting selfies with new people, tagging them, making sure you see that they’re moving on—whether they really are or not.
17. They Share “Relationship Advice” Out of Nowhere
A long rant about how they’ve learned so much about love and growth? Mhm, sure. They’re hoping you’ll read between the lines.
18. They Bring Up Inside Jokes in Comments
You post a random food picture, and they comment, “Still eating without me, huh?” That’s nostalgia bait, and they’re fishing for a reaction.
19. They Keep Showing Up in Your Suggested Friends List
If you don’t interact but their name keeps popping up, it’s because they’ve been checking your profile—social media algorithms don’t lie.
20. They Post Cryptic “I’m Fine” Messages
Status updates like “Some things just aren’t meant to be” or “Moving on is harder than it looks”? They might as well tag you directly.
21. They Suddenly Unblock You
If you were blocked and now you’re not, that’s a sign they’re opening the door for interaction.
22. They Slide Into Your Replies Instead of Your DMs
If they’re too shy (or proud) to text, they’ll drop casual replies to your tweets or comments instead.
23. The Birthday “HBD” Message
They haven’t spoken to you in months, but suddenly, they’re sending birthday wishes? It’s an excuse to break the silence.
24. They Show Up at Places You Frequent
If they suddenly start “bumping into” you at your favorite café, it’s likely not an accident.
25. They Finally DM You “Just to Check In”
After weeks or months of subtle moves, they just go for it: “Hey, how have you been?” This is the moment they’ve been building up to.
Final Takeaway: What Should You Do?
Now that you know the signs, the real question is: Do you want to engage?
If you’re over them, you don’t owe them a reaction. You can ignore, mute, or even block them. But if you’re still open to reconnecting, take things slow—just because they want attention doesn’t mean they want a relationship again.
At the end of the day, remember: You’re in control of your social media, your emotions, and your life. So choose wisely, and don’t let a few likes and cryptic quotes mess with your peace.
