US Patent 10397391 Two-way permission-based directory of contacts

Systems and methods for creating and joining directories of contacts are provided. A method includes receiving, from a first user device associated with a first user, a first request to create the directory of contacts, creating the directory of contacts, and receiving, from a second user device associated with a second user, a second request to join the directory of contacts. The first request includes a permission. The method also includes, on a condition that the permission includes a first indicator that the directory of contacts is private-manual, sending a notification of the second request to the first user, and in response to the first user accepting the second request, adding the second user to the directory of contacts.