Block List

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Feature Request: Block Contacts

Overview

To enhance user privacy and comfort, we propose implementing a "Block Contacts" feature that allows users to block individuals they know from appearing in their potential matches, ensuring a more controlled and comfortable app experience.

Purpose

The feature is designed to increase user control over their interactions on the app by allowing them to block contacts preemptively. This ensures that users do not encounter certain individuals from their personal or professional circles.

Feature Requirements

1. Contact List Integration:

   • Allow users to share their device’s contact list with the app.
   • Provide an option for users to manually input contact information (phone number or email) for blocking.

2. Blocking Functionality:

   • Users can select contacts they wish to block directly from the synced contact list or add them manually.
   • Blocked contacts will not be notified of the action.
   • The system will attempt to prevent both parties from seeing each other if the app recognizes the blocked contact’s information.

3. Data Handling and Privacy:

   • Contact information used for blocking (name, email, and/or phone number) will be retained only for the blocked contacts.
   • Ensure that the app does not store the entire contact list; only store information necessary for maintaining the block list.

4. User Interface:

   • Add a "Block Contacts" option within the app settings.
   • Provide a clear interface for syncing contacts, selecting individuals to block, and managing blocked contacts.
   • Include features to unblock contacts and disconnect the contact list sync.

5. Limitations and Important Notes:

   • Inform users that blocking does not guarantee total invisibility due to potential data mismatches.
   • Blocking contacts does not affect any existing matches or messages.
   • Users can opt to stop sharing their contact list at any time, without affecting the status of already blocked contacts.

6. Unblocking and Contact List Disconnection:

   • Provide a simple process to unblock contacts and to disconnect the contact list sharing.
   • Maintain privacy by keeping previously blocked contacts hidden unless the user decides to unblock them.

Implementation Considerations

• Ensure robust privacy protection measures are in place when handling and storing contact information.
• Regularly review and update the matching algorithms to accommodate the blocked contacts effectively.
• Provide clear instructions and transparency on how the contact information is processed and used.

User Benefits

• Increases user comfort by minimizing unwanted encounters on the app.
• Enhances user control over personal data and interactions within the app.
• Builds trust by respecting user privacy and choices regarding their social connections.

Next Steps

• Conduct a feasibility study to assess the technical requirements and potential challenges in implementing the feature.
• Gather preliminary user feedback to refine the feature’s functionality and interface.
• Develop a detailed implementation timeline, including stages for development, testing, and deployment.

Conclusion

The "Block Contacts" feature is envisioned as a significant enhancement to user privacy and control, fostering a more comfortable and trusted environment within the app. By allowing users to manage who they see and who can see them, we reinforce our commitment to user-centered design and privacy.

Hinge: https://hingeapp.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/19659017273235-How-can-I-Block-People-I-Know