Dating sites and hookup apps have made it easier than ever to meet new people. But just because you vetted someone's online profile doesn't necessarily mean you've got your bases covered.

If you are looking to hookup with a one-time fling or something more serious, there are some precautions you should take to help ensure your safety.

Here are our top 5 tips for staying safe when hooking up online:

1. Always Agree to Meet First In Public

We lead off our list of tips with something that may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people don't do this.

If someone you're talking to online insists on meeting at their place or yours, it's best to just move on. Insisting on meeting in a public place is not only good for your safety, but it also shows that they are respecting your boundaries.

Once you meet someone you want to hook up with, agree to meet in public before taking things any further. A coffee shop, bar, or park can be great places to meet up. This gives you a safe and neutral place to get to know each other better.

2. Don't Be Afraid to Google Them

We're all for the thrill of the unknown, but sometimes it's just better to know who you're dealing with.

If someone you're talking to online is being evasive about their identity or personal information, take a few minutes to do a quick Google search. A simple name and location can often reveal a lot about someone.

However, don't go too deep - respect their privacy and only search for information if you feel a sense in your gut that things might not be on the up and up.

3. Watch Out For Red Flags

When you're talking to someone online, it's essential to watch out for red flags. These can be anything from being evasive about personal information to pushing you to meet without much planning.

If you see any red flags, trust your gut and move on. There are plenty of other people to hook up with - you don't need to waste your time with someone who makes you feel uncomfortable.

4. Listen to Your Instincts

This ties in with the previous tip, but it's important enough to warrant its own spot on our list.

Your instincts are there for a reason - they can help you stay safe in situations where you might not be sure what to do. If something doesn't feel right, trust your gut and don't do it.

It's better to be safe than sorry, so if you have any doubts about someone you're talking to online, it's best to err on the side of caution.

5. Use Protection

This last tip is a no-brainer, but it's still important to mention.

Always use protection whenever you hook up with someone - whether online or in person. There is always a risk of STDs and unwanted pregnancies, so it's better to be safe than sorry.

If you're hooking up with someone you met online, use protection every time. This way, you can enjoy yourself without having to worry about the consequences.

Bonus Tip: Meet In Person as Soon as Possible

Once you've been talking to someone online for a while and you're both comfortable, it's time to take things to the next level and meet in person.

This is the best way to get to know someone and see if there's any chemistry. Plus, it's just more fun! Waiting too long to meet in person can often lead to disappointment, so it's best to just bite the bullet and do it.

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Don't let the red flags scare you away from online hookups completely. There are plenty of quality matches to be found - you just have to know where to look to find individuals like you who are down for some good, safe fun.

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