Forgive me if this is a repeat topic, as I don’t have time to scroll through the massive number of posts looking for the answer.
Why is it that sometimes I can’t add as a friend or even message someone? Is there a setting that allows those functions to be blocked? Is it tailored to a specific type of search?
You don’t have to scroll, you can use the search function at the top of the forums and personal ads page. The previous answer is correct, when you can’t message someone, it’s because they’re new and not authorised yet.
Yes, new members can be seen, but they only have a block function until they are vetted and verified. And RacheyJ is correct, the Welcoming Committee sends the newly registered member an email link to follow to verify their required information in order to become a full member.
If the member doesn’t validate the information through the email link, the process is slowed and the Welcoming Committee has to go back through the process.
Each member also has the choice to accept or reject DM’s from people they’re not friends with. It’s to prevent them being spammed with messages from people they don’t know, so it could be that too.