The Dos and Don'ts of finding hookups online

According to a recent study, more than 35% of Canadians have used or currently use an online dating site. While the anonymity of the internet can be a draw for some, it can also lead to people being catfished or worse.

When it comes to finding hookups online, there are definitely do's and don'ts. If you want to make sure that you have a positive experience, then it's essential to be aware of the following:

The Do's of finding hookups online

1. DO use a reputable dating site or app

There are plenty of them out there, and they all have different features. But if you're looking for a hookup, then you want to make sure that you're using a site or app that is reputable and has a good reputation. There are plenty of review sites out there that you can use to check out what other people are saying about a particular site or app.

2. DO be clear about your intentions

It's important to be clear about your intentions when you're looking for a hookup. Are you just looking for a casual fling? Or are you looking for something more serious? Be honest about what you're looking for, and make sure that you're on the same page as potential matches.

3. DO respect people's boundaries

Just because someone is looking for a hookup doesn't mean that they're willing to do anything and everything. So it's important to respect people's boundaries and not push them further than they're comfortable with. If someone says no, then take that as their final answer and move on.

4. DO use protection

This should go without saying, but using protection is always a good idea. Whether you're using a dating site or app, or hooking up in person, it's important to protect yourself from STDs and unwanted pregnancies. So always use protection, and make sure that you're getting tested regularly.

5. DO be safe

When you're meeting someone for a hookup, it's important to be safe. That means not giving out too much personal information, and being aware of your surroundings. If you're meeting someone in person, then make sure that you're meeting in a public place and that you have a way to get out of there if things go south.

6. DO have fun

The whole point is to have fun, so make sure that you're enjoying yourself. Don't do anything that you're not comfortable with, and make sure that you're being safe. But other than that, have fun and enjoy yourself!

The Don'ts of finding hookups online

1. DON'T be afraid to be upfront about what you're looking for

Some people are afraid to be too upfront about what they're looking for in a hookup. But the truth is, if you're not honest about what you're looking for, then you're likely to end up being disappointed. So be upfront from the beginning and let potential matches know what you're looking for.

2. DON'T send unsolicited pictures or messages

This should be a no-brainer, but unfortunately, it's not. Sending unsolicited pictures and messages is not only rude, but it can also get you into trouble. If you're sending nudes to someone who hasn't asked for them, then you're crossing a line. Not only is it creepy, but it can also be considered harassment.

3. DON'T hook up with a complete stranger 

Hooking up with someone you don't know can be dangerous. You never know what they might be hiding, or what their intentions are. So it's always better to be safe than sorry. If you're going to hook up with someone, make sure that you know them and that you trust them.

4. DON'T use a fake profile

If you're using a dating site or app, then it's important to make sure that your profile is accurate. Don't use fake photos, and don't lie about who you are. Be honest, because eventually the truth will come out. And if you're caught using a fake profile, then you could be banned from the site or app.

5. DON'T meet up with someone if you're feeling unsure

If you're not sure about meeting up with someone, then don't do it. It's better to be safe than sorry. If you're feeling uneasy about meeting someone, then it's probably not a good idea. Trust your gut, and don't do anything that you're not comfortable with.

6. DON'T engage in risky behavior

Hooking up can sometimes lead to risky behavior. If you're going to hook up with someone, then make sure that you're being safe. Don't put yourself in a position where you could get hurt or worse. Be smart and be safe and hook up responsibly.

7. DON'T forget to have fun

Like we said before, the whole point is to have fun. So don't forget that! Even if things don't go the way you planned, or you don't end up hooking up with anyone, make sure that you're still having a good time. Don't let anything ruin your night, and just enjoy yourself.

While there are definitely some risks involved in hooking up with someone online, as long as you're being safe and smart about it, then you shouldn't have any problems. So remember to keep these tips in mind, have fun, and be yourself, and you'll be sure to find the right hookup for you.