Today, Hinge is updating its approach to handling content that violates its Terms of Service for all U.S. users. The dating app will now remove a specific piece of problematic content from a user’s account and share clear feedback on what was flagged and why — as opposed to banning the account entirely.
Previously, if one piece of content (like a photo or response to a prompt) on a profile was flagged and didn’t meet Hinge’s Terms of Service, that account would be booted, and the person behind it would need to appeal the ban.
Now, that single piece of content will be removed. The account will remain on the app, but it won’t appear in other people’s Discover or Standout feeds (where you can “like” and match). Users will also be given a specific reason why and a chance to update their profile so that they can be seen by others again.
Credit: Hinge
Reasons why content could get removed include discriminatory language, scams, and sexually explicit material, according to Hinge’s help center.
This change comes after reports of Hinge (and other dating apps) banning accounts, and those users having a difficult time appealing the decision. Singles who have been banned from apps told Mashable earlier this year that not being able to use them has hurt their dating lives.
Now, Hinge aims to provide greater clarity and transparency regarding its rules and decision-making processes. It also hopes to decrease the frustration of “well-intentioned” daters who will be given a chance to adjust their profiles.
“We believe in supporting our community throughout their dating journey,” said Hinge’s chief risk officer, Jeff Dunn, in a statement to Mashable. “By giving daters the opportunity to update their content while remaining in good standing on Hinge, we’re delivering on our commitment to greater transparency and helping well-intentioned users better understand our policies — so they can stay focused on what matters most — making meaningful connections.”