Happn is a hyperlocal dating platform built around proximity, timing, and consent. Any discussion of proxies in this context must begin with ethics and compliance: respect for user privacy, platform terms, and local laws comes before any technical consideration. Rather than framing proxies as a way to “game” a system, responsible teams use network abstraction to run permitted QA, latency testing, and market research with explicit approvals and appropriate safeguards. For example, a brand studying app performance across regions might employ compliant proxy routes to observe load times or error frequency—never to harvest personal data or simulate people without consent. Likewise, analysts can aggregate publicly shared, non-personal metrics at a coarse level to understand macro usage patterns while deliberately avoiding identification or profiling. GSocks encourages a “privacy by design” approach: minimize data, obtain permission, document purpose, and provide opt-outs when working with research panels. If a use case conflicts with Happn’s terms or applicable law, the correct course is to stop, seek permission, or redesign the project. Proxies are tools; whether they create value or risk depends entirely on intent, governance, and the boundaries you refuse to cross.