Crafty technique is known as ‘faux-ning’.
Discount website www.MyVoucherCodes.co.uk found that 66 per cent of Brits have pretended to make a phone call in public, with 52 per cent doing so to avoid awkward social situations, while 41 per cent do so to project a professional image.
Interestingly, 24 per cent use 'faux-ning' on a regular basis – presumably because they have lots of party-based business meetings to attend.
Additionally, 24 per cent have 'fauxned' to feel safe in public, and nine per cent have done so to appear popular, while 27 per cent opt to send a text to avoid uncomfortable moments.
Mark Pearson, chairman, MyVoucherCodes.co.uk, said: "This survey reveals that technology is so much more than connectivity these days; it’s an extension of who we are and changes our public behaviour. Ten years ago people would have just gritted their teeth and coped with the situation."
"It makes you think twice about people constantly on their phone when out and about. You usually associate them with being confident and easy-going but this survey suggests that a facade behind a computer screen is expanding into a real life facade too."

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