The lockdown measures put in place to limit the spread of coronavirus have made this a tough time for all of us. That’s especially true for couples whose relationship hasn’t quite been going to plan of late, since both parties will be forced to spend an unprecedented amount of time in each other’s company.

While it might seem that the quarantine restrictions will make it all but impossible to continue a clandestine affair during the current pandemic, wantaway partners can still find a way. At the start of May, Professor Neil Ferguson was forced to quit his role as government advisor after revelations surfaced that he had broken the guidelines to welcome his mistress into his home.

What’s more, leading marital affairs site Illicit Encounters has reported a 15% rise in activity from members since lockdown began. Could the same be happening in your household? Here are five tell-tale signs that your partner is still playing away, even while staying at home.

  • Short fuse

If you notice that your partner has become irritable more regularly and frequently flies off the handle over trivial things, it may be a sign that they are unhappy in your relationship and that they are seeking satisfaction elsewhere. Be particularly wary if they intentionally start fights with you on more than one occasion, since this can be an attempt to justify their behaviour over unrelated matters.

  • Increased introversion

Is your significant other spending more time alone? Of course, the nature of lockdown means you are now likely to be spending far more time in each other’s pockets than ever before, so some desire for their own space is to be expected. But if they continually shun your company and actively seek out an excessive amount of time to themselves, something could be up.

  • Drop-off in sex drive

In theory, now is the perfect time for the sexual side of your relationship to flourish. With both of you confined to the house for the majority of the day, there are plenty of opportunities for you to explore a world of possibilities in the bedroom. A reluctance to do so isn’t automatically indicative that they’re having an affair, but could be a sign that they’re getting their sexual satisfaction elsewhere.

  • False sense of sanctimony

Have you noticed that your partner has suddenly developed a strong sense of sanctimony over others who cheat? Whether TV characters, celebrities or real-life acquaintances, if your partner expresses a judgemental attitude to other cheaters, they may simply be overcompensating for their own sense of guilt and attempting to cover up their own misdemeanours.

  • “Burner” phone

A second phone is the biggest red flag there is when it comes to infidelity. If you come across a phone that you didn’t previously know about, it’s probably time to confront your partner with the knowledge. Of course, there could be an innocent explanation, such as a work-only mobile, but if it’s one that they’ve actively kept from you, the chances are they’re cheating.

Call in the professionals

If you’re concerned about your partner’s behaviour during lockdown and suspect foul play, a matrimonial investigator can help you to get to the bottom of the matter. From GPS vehicle tracking to comprehensive surveillance packages, these professionals are dedicated to unearthing the truth and giving you the answers that you deserve.

About the Author

Written by Steven Hunter, founder of Hunter Surveillance Services – a team of expert private investigators in the UK.