Whether you’ve been using Grindr for years or you’re completely new to the online dating game, staying safe is always paramount when using hook-up apps.

Of course, there is a thrill to chatting with people you don’t know, and that sense of mystery before meeting someone new can be enticing, but it’s important to ensure that safety always comes first.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a few helpful tips to keep in mind and ensure you’re staying safe when using hook-up apps.

Ask for a face pic or, even better, video chat with them
Asking for a picture or opting for a video chat is a good way to make sure the user you’re talking to is who they say they are. However, for a variety of reasons, including the fear of being outed, many users prefer not to display their faces on the apps.

If you ask your potential partner to share a face picture with you and they refuse, even after you have shared your own, it’s likely best to step away from the encounter altogether and search for fun elsewhere.

Be mindful when sharing intimate photos
When it comes to sharing intimate photos, consent is key. Do not send anything unsolicited, and never ever share intimate photos a partner sends you with anyone else. Follow the platform’s rules, and never share anything if you feel pressured or coerced.

Don’t share too much personal information
While chatting, focus on sharing information that will help a partner get to know you better. Chat about your hobbies, pop culture, what you’re into, but don’t share anything sensitive, such as your address, your bank details or where you work.

For instance, if the person you’re chatting to wants to send you flowers, ask to meet them in a public place rather than handing out your address.

Check out their socials and verify their identity
If you’ve been chatting for a long time and feel ready to get to know them better, ask for their social media and take the conversation elsewhere. This will help you know that the person you are talking to is who they say they are.

Be wary of accounts with very few followers or unusual usernames.

Let your friends know and share your location
If you do decide to go ahead with a meet-up, let a friend know your plans ahead of time, and share your location. Sharing your live location with a friend through your phone will not only help them find you, but in an emergency, it can help the Gardaí track your location.

Meet in public first
If you’re meeting up with someone from a hook-up app for the first time, it’s safer to arrange to connect in a public space. Having other people around will give you a chance to gauge the situation and make a safe and hasty exit if you need to.

Don’t be afraid to decline any offer you might not be comfortable with
Just because it is a date with a potential partner and you might like them, it doesn’t mean that you have to say yes to anything they might ask for. If you do not feel comfortable with a proposal, make sure to make it clear and don’t be afraid of making the wrong impression.

Call for help if needed
If you find yourself in an emergency, call 999 and get help. If you’ve been subject to abuse by someone you met online, do not hesitate to report the incident to the Gardaí and to reach out for support.

Trust your instincts
If you get the feeling something is wrong at any point, leave immediately if you’re able to do so or ask them to go and alert friends and the Gardaí.