Do DNI lists really work?

Weirdos are everywhere, even in the web. We want to have safe spaces and people who are safe around us. Therefore, we have our own "Do Not Interact" lists. We specify type of individuals who we don't want to, well, interact with.

But, have you ever wondered if this really will work well? Will people actually check it and follow your words?

There is a expectation that you encountered someone who is part of the DNI list, interacting with you with a follow, a like, or a comment.

But why? Do they just don't comply? Do they want to spite you? Why do you have to block tens of people when the list is right there on your profile for them to see?

I remember when I was younger, a tweet of mine got traction. NSFW accounts interacted with the tweet when I literally added "NSFW DNI" not only in the bio, but in my display name, an area where everyone can see.

With the fact that there are people who are against this idea, the question does reveal its answer a bit.

But what do we do then? What only works is to check everyone and block them if they don't satisfy us, but what's the point of DNI lists in the beginning?