Tinder Block Contacts: Finally Available!

The Rise of Dating Apps and New Safety Features

Despite the challenges presented by the recent global pandemic, dating applications have experienced a notable increase in both downloads and active users. With the wider availability of COVID-19 vaccinations, this upward trend is projected to persist.

Tinder's Anticipated "Uncuffing Season" and New Blocking Feature

Tinder is forecasting a “post-pandemic uncuffing season” and is introducing a new functionality in anticipation. Users now have the ability to upload their phone contacts and designate specific individuals they prefer not to encounter on the platform. These individuals could include former partners, colleagues, or relatives.

A survey conducted on behalf of Tinder revealed that 40% of users have previously located an ex-partner on the app. Furthermore, 24% have come across family members, and approximately one in ten have even encountered a professor.

Enhancing User Safety Through Contact Blocking

While encountering a past relationship on a dating app can be uncomfortable, the primary motivation behind this new feature is to bolster user safety. It provides a direct blocking mechanism for individuals who have previously experienced stalking or abusive behavior, either within the app or elsewhere.

Privacy Concerns Regarding Contact Access

However, the implementation of this feature raises privacy considerations. Instead of a simple input form for phone numbers or email addresses, Tinder requests access to the user’s complete contacts list.

The company asserts that it only retains the contact information of those who have been blocked, and not the entire address book. Nevertheless, users may harbor reservations.

Historically, social applications have utilized address book uploads as a means of collecting user data, often with limited benefits beyond facilitating friend discovery. This practice has seen a resurgence in newer apps like Poparazzi and Clubhouse, with the latter ceasing the practice in March following user feedback.

Tinder's Statement on the New Feature

“We’re rolling out Block Contacts as an additional resource empowering members with peace of mind by helping create a worry-free space for them to spark new connections,” stated Bernadette Morgan, Group Product Manager, Trust & Safety at Tinder.

Testing and Usage Statistics

Tinder initially tested the Block Contacts feature in India, Korea, and Japan. The results indicated that users who utilized the feature blocked an average of twelve individuals.

How to Utilize the Block Contacts Feature

To access the feature, navigate to Settings within your profile, then select “Block Contacts.” You will then be prompted to grant the app the necessary permissions.

Blocking specific individuals requires selecting them from the “Contacts” tab and then tapping “Block Contacts.” Blocking status on your phone does not automatically translate to blocking within the app.

Potential for Misuse

This interface simplifies blocking both abusive individuals and former partners. It also caters to users who wish to block a substantial number of people, such as family members or close friends.

Consequently, the feature could be exploited by individuals seeking to engage in infidelity while using the Tinder app.

Important Considerations for Users

Tinder mandates a valid phone number for registration, although workarounds, such as using a Google Voice number, are possible. Therefore, users should exercise caution and discretion, regardless of the safety features implemented by the platform.