In a major update aimed at enhancing user privacy, Zomato has introduced the option to disable contact sharing. The move allows users to opt out of sharing their phone numbers with restaurants when placing orders. This step comes amid growing awareness and concerns about personal data security and online privacy.
This update is part of Zomato’s efforts to balance user safety with operational needs, ensuring that personal data is shared only when users explicitly consent.
🌟 What Is the Contact Sharing Feature?
Previously, Zomato allowed users to share their contact numbers with restaurants for communication regarding orders. This could include order confirmations, special requests, and sometimes marketing or promotional purposes.
However, many users expressed concerns about:
- Privacy breaches
- Unsolicited calls or messages
- Misuse of personal data
As a result, Zomato has now made the feature optional. Users can disable contact sharing from the app settings at any time, regaining full control over their personal information.
✅ Why This Update Matters
- User Privacy: Disabling contact sharing ensures that your phone number remains private, protecting you from spam or unwanted marketing messages.
- Consent-Based Sharing: Users now have complete control over whether restaurants can access their contact information.
- Compliance & Trust: With increasing scrutiny over digital privacy and upcoming data protection regulations, Zomato’s move builds trust and aligns with best practices.
- Transparency: Users are clearly informed about what data is shared and have an easy option to opt out.
⚠️ Considerations & Cautions
- Previous Sharing Cannot Be Undone: If you had previously shared your number with restaurants, that information may already exist with them.
- Potential for Marketing Messages: Even with new opt-out settings, users should remain cautious about sharing other personal details on the platform.
- Awareness is Key: Users should regularly review app settings and privacy preferences to ensure that they remain in control of their data.
📌 Impact on Users and Restaurants
- For Users: Greater safety, control, and peace of mind while using the app.
- For Restaurants: While contact sharing could help with direct communication, Zomato’s consent-based approach ensures that restaurants respect user privacy.
- For Zomato: The company strengthens its position as a platform that prioritizes user trust and data security while balancing the needs of partner restaurants.
🌍 The Bigger Picture: Digital Privacy in India
This update highlights a larger trend in India’s app ecosystem: users are increasingly aware of their data rights and demand transparency from digital platforms. Features like contact sharing, location access, and personal details require clear consent to protect privacy.
Zomato’s move sets a benchmark for other platforms in the food-tech and digital services industry, emphasizing that user consent and safety are non-negotiable in today’s digital age.
🛠️ How Users Can Control Their Data
- Open Zomato app → Go to Settings → Privacy
- Locate Contact Sharing Option
- Disable it to prevent your phone number from being shared with restaurants
This ensures complete control over your personal data while still enjoying the app’s services safely.
