As an American living in the Middle East, I get the question on a regular basis: Are you a spy?

Others aren't so direct but I hear their whispered suspicions on a regular basis. Whether or not I'm a spy of course will just have to remain a mystery. I wouldn't want to blow my cover by admitting something like that online after all.

However, if you're trying to figure out if your new friend is a spy or not, check for these signs.

1. He or she has an expert knowledge of a regional language or languages

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Arabic is usually the preference. If they are fluent in Arabic, Farsi and Turkish, be very suspicious.

2. No job (or a low-paying one) but always seems to have money

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Maybe just rich parents? Or maybe Uncle Sam is footing the bill ...

3. And usually an exceptionally nice apartment

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No job? No money? Best apartment in the city? Rich parents, I swear.

4. Always seems to know far more about regional politics than you or any of your friends

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He or she should really just pretend not to know this stuff.

5. And is very interested in any political leanings or connections people have

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If his or her ears perk up every time you mention Hezbollah ...

6. There's a really good cover story

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It might be education, working with some NGO or volunteering. Remain suspicious.

7. But also very few details

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You never quite understand exactly what they are studying or doing in their volunteer work

8. Politely changes the subject every time the subject of spies comes ups

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Regularly dodges the question when asked directly

9. Has a number of friends that are equally suspicious

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So, all of their roommates lived in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria before moving to Lebanon? Interesting. Very interesting.

10. May often have very pro-Western political leanings

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But, the best ones pretend to be leftists. Don't be fooled.

11. Travels regularly and without warning

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Oh, you went to Iraq this weekend for fun? How was that?

12. May decide to leave the country indefinitely after previously committing to stay longterm

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You just renewed your residency and now you're leaving forever?

13. Always uses vague reasons to explain these decisions

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Just smile and nod.

14. After deciding to leave and disappearing for several months – or years – he or she suddenly shows up again without warning

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You just can't get rid of them.