What term describes altering or obscuring one's identity online?

The term that accurately describes altering or obscuring one's identity online is spoofing. Spoofing involves impersonating another individual or entity by disguising one's true identity. This can be accomplished through various methods, such as creating fake profiles on social media, using IP address spoofing, or employing other technologies that mask the true origin of online actions.

Spoofing is often associated with deceptive practices intended to mislead others, whether for malicious purposes or simply to maintain anonymity. It encompasses a wide range of activities where an individual assumes a different identity to gain access, manipulate, or trick others.

This clarity in definition is essential, as it distinguishes spoofing from other related concepts, such as masking, which generally refers to concealing information rather than assuming a different identity. Phishing involves tricking individuals into providing sensitive information but does not specifically focus on identity alteration. Doppelganging, while it reflects the idea of a double or an impersonation, is not a widely recognized term in the context of digital identity manipulation.