In the early 2000s, when flip phones and bulky Nokias were the epitome of cool, a peculiar craze captured headlines across the UK. Long before the era of Tinder swipes and Hinge prompts, a much stranger phenomenon was taking place: a trend known as “toothing”.

At first glance, it seemed like a scene straight out of a late-night Channel 4 documentary. Train commuters fiddling with their mobile phones weren’t just passing time playing Snake. Instead, they might have been searching for strangers to connect with, thanks to Bluetooth, which was the cutting-edge technology of that time.

As initially reported by Reuters via ABC back in 2004: “Toothing is a form of anonymous sex with strangers, usually occurring on some form of transport or in enclosed spaces such as a conference or training seminar”.

This was also detailed on a specific 'Beginner's Guide To Toothing' website.

Electronic gadgets that have no further use (OwenPrice / Getty Images))

Having been newly introduced to the public that same year, Bluetooth technology enabled phones to send contacts, pictures, and messages to nearby devices within approximately 10 metres. While originally intended for sharing files, music, or contacts, people quickly realized they could use it to send cheeky anonymous messages to strangers.

This led to the rise of 'bluejacking', which involved surprising someone nearby with a random message. However, the toothing trend took it a step further, suggesting these anonymous messages could lead to illicit encounters. Whether on a train, in a bar, or even during a weekly grocery trip, it was touted as the most daring high-tech game in town.

At the time, other media outlets reported on it with a mix of shock and curiosity. Commuters were cautioned that the person sitting across from them might be using their phone for more than just texting friends.

Looking back two decades later, it now feels more like a moral panic rather than a significant cultural movement. Unlike online dating apps that have become a staple in how people connect, toothing is one of those fleeting internet-age stories that has mostly faded into obscurity.

Couple flirting on train (Flashpop / Getty Images)

Many millennials might cringe when recalling how it was hyped, while Gen Z are likely relieved they never had to sit on a crowded train, wondering if their phone would light up with an inappropriate invite.

What remains is an intriguing reminder of how new technology often inspires a blend of excitement and apprehension, especially regarding relationships and sex. Before swiping right became a norm, there was this odd moment in time when Bluetooth was briefly considered the future of anonymous hookups.