Dark Patterns in UX: Manipulation That Destroys User Trust
🕵️ How often did it happen to you that you unknowingly subscribed to a subscription that you did not want, or tried to unsubscribe from the newsletter, but the button was hidden? You may have fallen victim to dark patterns — dark patterns in UX/UI design that are designed to manipulate users into decisions that do not benefit them.
In this article, we will look at the most common types of dark patterns, their impact on users and businesses, and why to avoid them. We will support this with scientific studies and show how ethical design produces better results in the long term.
What are UX Dark Patterns?
Dark patterns are manipulative elements in user interface design that lead users to actions they would not otherwise take. These practices are often unethical, but unfortunately very widespread in e-commerce, subscription services or applications that collect personal data.
According to a study in the Journal of Legal Analysis, dark patterns are so effective because they exploit users' cognitive biases, such as fear of missing an opportunity (FOMO) or a habit of relying on default settings. (Zro(j)
The Most Common Types of Dark Patterns
- Obstruction Techniques (Obstruction)
- They make it difficult for the user to take certain actions, such as unsubscribing or canceling a subscription.
- 📌 Example: Netflix or Amazon Prime complicate the process of canceling an account with multiple steps, while logging in is a matter of a few clicks.
- Hidden Costs
- The price is deliberately displayed only at the last step of the purchase.
- 📌 Example: Airline tickets or e-shops that add a “handling fee” just before payment
- Pressure Messages (Confirmshaming)
- Using psychological coercion so that the user does not reject the offer.
- 📌 Example: “No, thank you, I don't want to be rich! “as a reject button in an investment advertisement
- Surprise Registration (Forced Continuity)
- After the end of the trial, the user is automatically transferred to a paid subscription.
- 📌 Example: Spotify or Apple Music will charge a monthly fee after the end of the free trial.
- False Urgency (Scarcity & Urgency)
- It pushes users to purchase by claiming limited quantities.
- 📌 Example: “Only 1 room left at this price! “—even if it's not true.
- Unwanted Login (Sneak into Basket)
- The product or service is automatically added to the cart.
- 📌 Example: Adding travel insurance to the ticket without the customer's consent.
- Misdirection (Misdirection)
- The user interface distracts from important information.
- 📌 Example: The big “Accept all cookies” button vs. the small “Edit settings” button.
- Roach Motel (Hard Check-out)
- Easy to sign in, but logging out is extremely tricky.
- 📌 Example: Deactivating a Facebook account requires many steps and confirmations.
- Fake Social Proof
- Displaying non-existent reviews or fake statistics.
- 📌 Example: “15 people just bought this product” -- even if that's not true.
Why are UX Dark Patterns harmful?
According to the study Northeastern University oneself Dark Patterns Appear Across Web and Mobile Apps, which points to a systemic problem that needs to be regulated. (Source)
- 🔴 Negative effects of dark patterns:
- ❌ They damage customer trust Users who feel cheated often leave the company.
- ❌ Increase the likelihood of regulation GDPR and CCPA focus on unfair practices in UX.
- ❌ Short-term gains, long-term losses Companies that use dark patterns can face negative publicity and fines.
How to avoid Dark Patterns and do ethical UX design?
Colin Gray, UX design expert, points out that dark patterns undermine design ethics by prioritizing the interests of companies over the needs of users. (Source)
- ✅ How to design a fair UX/UI design? A couple of examples:
- ✔ Transparent data collection — Allow users to easily manage consents.
- ✔ Easy sign-out — The logout process should be as simple as logging in.
- ✔ No hidden fees — The price should be clear from the start.
- ✔ Respect for users — Do not rely on deceptive practices to increase profits.
🔹 The “Ethical UX Design” approach means designing products that are fair, transparent and sustainable. In the long run, it pays to do things right.
Conclusion: UX design with respect for users
Dark patterns can bring short-term growth, but ultimately It destroys trust and damages the reputation of the company. The best UX is one that helps users make informed decisions and does not abuse their weaknesses.
👉 CCan you be sure that your product is ethical?
We at SDMK Design we offer audit “Ethical Design”that will help your product meet the highest ethical standards.
📩 Contact us to find out more! 🚀