This content first appeared on Mashable aimed at a US audience and has been modified for a UK audience.
In a society where online dating and casual flings are commonplace, the dating scene can still seem draining. At times, merely the idea of dressing up, thinking of clever icebreakers, and traveling to the actual meeting place can be exhausting.
No matter the type of interaction you intend to have, dating invariably involves some level of physical effort. The silver lining? There exists a workaround: Sexting.
What is sexting?
Sexting is the practice of sharing sexually explicit images or messages with one or more individuals via text. With its growing popularity, various apps have emerged specifically for sexting, along with new sexting functionalities within apps designed for in-person dating.
What should you know about sexting?
Whether you’re considering giving sexting a shot or are already an expert, there are a few aspects to bear in mind when downloading and using a new dating app for sexting. Certainly, there are fewer reservations when finding a new sexting partner compared to seeking a long-term relationship, but there are guidelines to follow to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Here are three key points:
Mutual respect — Evaluate the context and understand your audience. Typically, it only takes a few pre-sext messages (or pre-sexts) to determine if someone is interested in engaging in some digital naughtiness with you. Make sure to assess that before you jump in with something crude and inappropriate. In other words, don’t just start bombarding people with unsolicited explicit images.
Mutual trust — Be considerate: Privacy is paramount. The internet possesses the unsettling capability of rendering temporary moments quite permanent. If someone requests you to keep something private, honor that. While sexting can be playful and enjoyable, it necessitates a significant level of trust. If you violate that trust, it harms the experience for everyone.
Privacy — No application can entirely safeguard your privacy — that responsibility lies with you. Although certain apps include features meant to protect your identity/content, they cannot eliminate all risks. For instance, capturing a picture you send doesn’t require someone to take a screenshot; they could simply use another device to photograph or record your images and/or videos. Always consider this before sharing anything potentially compromising, and ensure you trust the recipient of your messages.
Keep these considerations in mind while participating in NSFW conversations.
Should you consider engaging in sexting?
In-person dating is undoubtedly the best approach to get to know someone for the long haul, especially if you’re seeking any type of serious relationship. And real-life intimacy will always surpass sexting. Nevertheless, sexting offers an alternative that may