How to Detect and Avoid a Shadow Ban on Hinge

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A complete rundown of shadow bans on Hinge
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Does Hinge really shadow ban users? It is a difficult question to answer, as shadow bans by nature are unofficial bans that allegedly make users harder to find on dating or social media apps. While we cannot confirm the existence of a Hinge shadow ban, there are some clues to look for, as well as steps you can take to start getting matches again. This wikiHow guide covers everything you need to know about shadow bans on Hinge.

Things You Should Know

  • Shadow bans on Hinge may not be real, but you can avoid even the possibility of one by always abiding by Hinge's Terms of Service.
  • If you are used to getting several Likes a week and suddenly experience a drop-off, that may be an indication of a shadow ban.
  • A Hinge shadow ban may last a minimum of three months. Otherwise, the ban is likely permanent.
Section 1 of 5:

Are shadow bans on Hinge real?

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    Hinge, like other dating apps, claims that they do not shadow ban users. Of course, shadow bans are not meant to be detected, so it is difficult confirm Hinge's claim.
    • This guide operates under the assumption that shadow bans on Hinge may be real, providing info and tips for avoiding such an obstacle to your online dating experience.
      • Even if Hinge shadow bans are real, it is worth acknowledging that a lack of matches or desirable profiles is not an immediate indication of a shadow ban.
      • Consider updating your profile before taking steps related to a potential shadow ban.
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Section 2 of 5:

Potential Signs of a Shadow Ban

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    A shadow banned Hinge account is an account that still exists, but is now invisible to other users. If you are used to getting several Likes each week, but now are getting none at all, it may be an indication of a shadow ban.
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    A common complaint from users who believe they have been shadow banned is that Hinge continues to put profiles in their deck for which they have already tapped the X .
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    If you are used to never running out of profiles to comb through on Hinge, but you are suddenly only given a few to look at each day, this could be a sign that you have been shadow banned.
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    Users experiencing a potential shadow ban often cite the feeling that their profile has gone invisible. They receive very few notifications, and no longer receive responses from matches with whom they are already chatting.
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Section 3 of 5:

Fixing a Hinge Shadow Ban

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    If it is indeed true that a shadow ban only lasts three months, it is worth taking a break from online dating (or at least from Hinge) and returning to the app in a few months to see if you receive more interaction on the app again.
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    The issues you are experiencing on Hinge may not be related to a shadow ban. You may simply need to give your profile a new look. Update your photos and swap out your prompts to see if anything changes.
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    If your account really has been shadow banned, the only certain solution is to close it and create a new one. Your new account must use a new phone number and email address.
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Section 4 of 5:

How long does a Hinge shadow ban last?

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    Most users who report a shadow ban ultimately claim that the ban is permanent. The only way to fix it is to create a new account.
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    Hinge keeps your personal data for three months after closing your account. [1] Because Hinge openly notes that users' personal data is kept for three months after an account closes, some users believe a shadow ban lasts a minimum of three months. If you are experiencing a dip in matches on Hinge, try using your account again after three months to see if anything changes.
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Section 5 of 5:

Preventing a Hinge Shadow Ban

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    Online dating can be frustrating, so you may be tempted to close your account and reopen it at a later point in time. You may get away with this once or twice, but Hinge may shadow ban or outright suspend you if you continue this behavior repeatedly.
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    Never open more than one Hinge account at a time. It may lead to a shadow ban, and it has a negative impact on the online dating community.
    • Each Hinge account must be tied to a new phone number and email. But even if you abide by these conditions in creating multiple accounts at once, Hinge's algorithm may recognize similarities in your photos or your use of the app in certain locations.
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    If you have in fact been shadow banned, it is likely because you violated Hinge's Terms of Service in some capacity. Be respectful in your interactions with others, do not solicit money or other items on the app, and do not impersonate anyone else.
    • Be careful sharing links to other websites on Hinge, as the company may interpret this as a solicitation. [2]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://hinge.co/privacy
      2. ↑ https://hinge.co/terms

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