Sex workers have long served their purpose in the shadowy underworld, but technological advances are transforming their role. Apps like Grindr facilitate speedy hookups; websites such as Ashley Madison facilitate adulterous relationships. Some worry that these sites, coupled with growing social acceptance of premarital intercourse and easier divorces, are making the world’s oldest profession obsolete. But sex workers are also getting a new pathway into their work: dating/hookup apps not designed for sex work that allow users to accept money or other items in exchange for sexual services.
The best hookup apps offer a variety of ways to connect with potential partners, from sexting to video chat. Many, however, are bogged down by a high percentage of catfishers and scammers, while others have strict verification policies that can help you weed out the scumbags.
If you’re looking to meet a hookup in a discreet and safe environment, check out Down or HER. Both feature a relatively even ratio of men to women and a clean interface. Down has one ace up its sleeve, though: it doesn’t ask you to provide any personal details until you’re ready to make a connection. This is especially helpful for sex workers, who want to keep their identities secret until they’re ready to take things to the next level.
Another hookup app that prioritizes discretion is HER, which is 100% female- and LGBTQ-friendly. With a quick signup process, HER lets you message your matches for free, making it easy to strike up conversations. But be warned: the high levels of engagement may lead to lags, which can be frustrating. HER also offers an in-app video chat, which can be useful for sex workers who need to verify their identity before meeting face to face.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach to dating, try EliteSingles. This hookup site is geared toward educated and ambitious individuals who are looking for more serious connections. While the site isn’t exactly cheap, it has a decent user base and implements stringent security measures.
If you’re willing to shell out a little cash for a quality date, check out WhatsYourPrice. This matchmaking service connects attractive women with generous men who are willing to pay for their company. Eight million offers are accepted every day, and you can use the site’s strict verification policy to weed out any potential scammers.
Blendr depends on Facebook and is only available for iPhone, but it has a clean, simple interface that makes it easy to navigate. It’s a popular choice among younger men, who are more likely to be attracted to its focus on open-mindedness and kinky communities. But it can be a hit or miss, depending on your location.
While Tinder and Grindr are dominated by horny men, some people find a better balance on sexy hookup sites like HER or DOWN. HER features an impressive number of profiles and a desirable ratio of women to men. Plus, its sexy emojis will definitely help you break the ice with your matches. And its free and unlimited messaging ensures you won’t run out of messages to send.