In Latino cultures, a hug would be completely appropriate. Why is it your culture that gets to decide? I find that attitude in itself offensive, especially considering we're talking about text.
If you get creeped out by even a virtual hug and see more open people as violators, that's your problem, not theirs.
If you get creeped out by even a virtual hug and see more open people as violators, that's your problem, not theirs.