Dark pattern: Difference between revisions

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== Dark Patterns: Manipulating Consumer Behavior Through Design ==

'''Dark patterns''' ~~refer~~ to deceptive design practices used in websites, applications, or digital interfaces to manipulate users into making decisions that benefit the organization implementing them, often at the expense of the user’s best interests. Coined by ~~user experience~~ (UX) specialist Harry Brignull in 2010, the term has since become a critical focus in consumer advocacy, as these practices undermine transparency and user autonomy.

'''Dark patterns''' refers to deceptive design practices used in websites, applications, or digital interfaces to manipulate users into making decisions that benefit the organization implementing them, often at the expense of the user’s best interests. Coined by User Experience (UX) specialist Harry Brignull in 2010, the term has since become a critical focus in consumer advocacy, as these practices undermine transparency and user autonomy.

=== Types and Examples of Dark Patterns ===

Dark patterns can be found across industries and platforms. While some examples overlap or share common tactics, all rely on manipulation and deception to achieve their goals. ~~Below~~ are the most notable types:

Dark patterns can be found across multiple industries and platforms. While some examples overlap or share common tactics, all rely on manipulation and deception to achieve their goals. Listed below are the most notable types:

* '''[[EULA Roofie]]''': Critical End-User License Agreements (EULAs) are hidden or presented only after purchase, making it difficult for users to review terms before committing. These agreements may be located inside packaging, under a lid, or displayed upon initial activation, limiting informed consent. This tactic overlaps with "forced continuity" and "roach motel" practices.

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* '''[[Federal Trade Commission]] (FTC)''': In the U.S., the FTC has taken action against companies employing dark patterns, including fines and enforcement actions.

=== ~~Combatting~~ Dark Patterns ===

=== Combating Dark Patterns ===

Consumers and designers can take steps to identify and combat dark patterns:

Consumers and designers can take steps to identify and combat dark patterns by:

* '''Raising Awareness''': Educating users about common dark patterns helps them make informed decisions.

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 == Dark Patterns: Manipulating Consumer Behavior Through Design ==
-'''Dark patterns''' refer to deceptive design practices used in websites, applications, or digital interfaces to manipulate users into making decisions that benefit the organization implementing them, often at the expense of the user’s best interests. Coined by user experience (UX) specialist Harry Brignull in 2010, the term has since become a critical focus in consumer advocacy, as these practices undermine transparency and user autonomy.
+'''Dark patterns''' refers to deceptive design practices used in websites, applications, or digital interfaces to manipulate users into making decisions that benefit the organization implementing them, often at the expense of the user’s best interests. Coined by User Experience (UX) specialist Harry Brignull in 2010, the term has since become a critical focus in consumer advocacy, as these practices undermine transparency and user autonomy.
 === Types and Examples of Dark Patterns ===
-Dark patterns can be found across industries and platforms. While some examples overlap or share common tactics, all rely on manipulation and deception to achieve their goals. Below are the most notable types:
+Dark patterns can be found across multiple industries and platforms. While some examples overlap or share common tactics, all rely on manipulation and deception to achieve their goals. Listed below are the most notable types:
 * '''[[EULA Roofie]]''': Critical End-User License Agreements (EULAs) are hidden or presented only after purchase, making it difficult for users to review terms before committing. These agreements may be located inside packaging, under a lid, or displayed upon initial activation, limiting informed consent. This tactic overlaps with "forced continuity" and "roach motel" practices.
@@ Line 47: / Line 47: @@
 * '''[[Federal Trade Commission]] (FTC)''': In the U.S., the FTC has taken action against companies employing dark patterns, including fines and enforcement actions.
-=== Combatting Dark Patterns ===
+=== Combating Dark Patterns ===
-Consumers and designers can take steps to identify and combat dark patterns:
+Consumers and designers can take steps to identify and combat dark patterns by:
 * '''Raising Awareness''': Educating users about common dark patterns helps them make informed decisions.