'Dark patterns' can ruin your online experience. Here's how to avoid them.

The internet is a minefield of deceptive design, and some of it is intentional. Dark patterns, also known as deceptive design patterns, are sneaky tactics used to manipulate users into unwanted actions, such as subscribing to newsletters or visiting irrelevant websites.

The Federal Trade Commission defines this practice as including "disguising ads as legitimate content, making it difficult to cancel subscriptions or charges, hiding crucial terms or hidden fees, and tricking users into sharing their data." Many websites and apps, even reputable ones like Amazon or the New York Times, employ these tactics. Understanding how dark patterns work and how to identify them is crucial for protecting your finances and online privacy.

The Single, Prominent Button Trap

During software installation, it's tempting to rush through the process by clicking "Next" or "Continue." Software developers exploit this tendency. For instance, Dropbox's setup prompts users to back up their computer files:

While file backups are beneficial, the default setting often selects all folders. Even if you uncheck them or click "Modify folder selection," many users overlook this and simply hit "Set up." Dropbox likely encourages this because backing up entire folders quickly consumes cloud storage, leading to premium subscription upgrades.

The "Not right now" option is deliberately less noticeable—smaller, less prominent, and styled as a link, not a button. This pattern is pervasive; many newsletter pop-ups employ similar tactics. The solution? Carefully read each screen during software setup.

Hidden Subscription Fees

Companies prefer recurring subscriptions to one-time purchases. While often transparent, some services deceptively enroll users in monthly subscriptions. This often occurs with free trials requiring credit card information. Once the trial ends, the subscription automatically charges the card and often auto-renews. Politicians sometimes use similar tactics, pre-selecting boxes to transform one-time donations into recurring ones.

Always carefully read the text next to any checkboxes before confirming a purchase to avoid recurring charges. If you've already fallen victim, take steps to manage those unwanted subscriptions.

Ads Masquerading as Content

Online advertisements often disguise themselves to trick users into clicking. They may mimic download buttons, links, or news article previews.

To identify these, hover your mouse over links or images. The URL displayed in the bottom-left corner of your browser will reveal the destination. Legitimate links will point to the expected site (the publication or software page). URLs containing "googleads" or "doubleclick" usually indicate an advertisement.

Staying Vigilant Against Dark Patterns

These are just a few examples. Remember: never assume design choices are neutral or that default settings are optimal. Companies have agendas that may not align with your best interests. For more information on dark patterns and how to spot them, visit deceptive.design. Stay safe online!

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