Dating apps let users transform virtual interactions into real-world meetings. So, how effectively are these platforms addressing the myriad safety challenges?

In this episode of Double Click, we explore Hinge's latest initiative: Hidden Words. This user-driven moderation tool designed to empower daters by allowing them to filter out specific words, phrases, or emojis from their matches' first messages. But how effective is this new approach when it comes to increasing safety for users?

Benji Loney, TrustLab’s Chief Product Officer, explores the delicate balance between user empowerment and the risks of creating superficial safety measures. Additionally, Sabrina Pascoe, TrustLab’s Director of Customer Success and Vendor Operations, raises critical questions about the design and effectiveness tools like Hidden Words, particularly in terms of their unintended consequences on reporting bad actors.

We’ll also hear from Jeff Dunn, Hinge’s VP of Trust and Safety, who provides a behind-the-scenes peek into the development and implementation of Hidden Words.
 
In this episode, you’ll learn:

• User Adoption is Difficult to Achieve: User adoption of moderation tools like Hidden Words is crucial but often underwhelming.
• Navigating Nuance in Moderation Tools: TrustLabs Director of Customer Success and Vendor Operations, Sabrina Pascoe, highlights the complexity of contextual word usage, posing questions about the fine line between safety and censorship. 
• Real-World Implications— Bridging Online and Offline Safety: Dating apps must balance online safety and real-world meeting risks; Hidden Words aims to preempt negative interactions.

Jump into the conversation:
[00:00] Introducing Hinge’s new feature
[00:58] What exactly is Hinge's Hidden Words feature?
[05:28] How does Hinge’s Hidden Words feature compare with Reddit's Automod Product
[09:31] The trouble with user-controlled moderation tools
[10:30] Hinge’s Jeff Dunn on the development of Hidden Words