Deceptive Patterns
What are Deceptive Patterns?
Deceptive patterning is the intentional use of misleading design patterns for financial gain.
This takes form in multiple different ways and appears across all major websites and apps.
These patterns exploit human psychology and make users take actions they may not have wished.
Some common types of deceptive patterning include hidden costs, disguised ads, and trick wording (Deceptive Design, 2024).
One example of this is a user seeing a “Continue” button that actually enrolls them in a subscription.
Notice in this image how Instagram has worded their notification and buttons confusingly.
And notice how Audible try to distract you from canceling your subscription? And how their buttons are set up?
Why is acknowledging and spreading awareness about Deceptive Patterns Important?
- E-commerce is a vital part of the modern economy–70% of EU internet users bought goods or services online in 2023 (EBSCO).
- Deceptive Design’s *Hall of Shame* details hundreds of dark designs submitted by incensed users–untold thousands more exist online.
- Consumer protection agencies have been battling these tactics for years.
Every person who uses sites affected by Deceptive Patterns are at risk of being tricked, so I'ts important to know how to spot them.