Dark Patterns
Slug
Checked
Yes
Tags
Real term
Yes.
Yes.
Meta Description
Select
Generated
Meta Title
Publish
Publish
Created
Nov 12, 2024 09:56 PM
Letter
D
Dark Patterns
[dahrk PAT-ernz]
What Is Dark Patterns?
Dark patterns are deceptive design tricks used in apps and websites that manipulate users into doing things they didn't intend to do, like making purchases, sharing personal data, or spending more time on platforms than planned.
Word Origins:
The term "dark patterns" was coined by UX designer Harry Brignull in 2010. He created the term to describe manipulative design practices that were becoming increasingly common in digital interfaces, comparing them to "dark arts" – techniques used for deception.
Common Types of Dark Patterns
- Forced Continuity: Making it easy to sign up but hard to cancel
- Confirmshaming: Guilting users who decline ("No thanks, I don't want to save money")
- Hidden Costs: Revealing extra charges only at final checkout
- Trick Questions: Using confusing double negatives
- Social Proof: Showing fake countdown timers or "other shoppers viewing this"
How to Protect Yourself
- Take screenshots of cancellation processes
- Read all confirmation boxes carefully
- Look for pre-checked boxes
- Don't rush through checkouts
- Be suspicious of urgency messages ("Only 2 rooms left!")
- Check prices in multiple browsers/devices
Related Terms
- Digital Anxiety: Stress and worry caused by digital experiences and interactions
- Attention Hijacking: When apps and websites use techniques to capture and hold your attention
- Digital Mindfulness Score: A measure of how consciously you interact with digital technology