Dark UX patterns done on purpose
What are dark patterns?
Dark UX is a design strategy used to mislead and control users into acting contrary to their original intentions. Essentially, dark patterns are unethical shortcuts used to achieve business objectives, often at the expense of unsuspecting users.
They’re like digital traps that trick you into doing things you weren’t supposed to do. confusing CTAs, hidden fees, or making it difficult to cancel subscriptions some of these. Today, I’ll explain the deceptive dark UX patterns and practices used to trick users.
Why?
Companies sometimes use dark UX patterns because they’re chasing quick wins. They believe it is a shortcut to making more money or looking better than their competitors. But the problem is, that it often leaves customers feeling misled and can seriously mess with a company’s reputation in the long run.
Here, I will discuss some of the dark UX patterns used in Sri Lankan companies.
Hiding costs
Have you ever tried to buy cheap products and just find out hidden fees and taxes at the checkout? Meet the hidden costs dark pattern. The strategy is to attract customers with low prices. By the time users find the actual price, they have already expended too much time.
Hiding Unsubscribe method
hiding the unsubscribe button in newsletters is a dark UX pattern that takes advantage of user frustration. The design controls people into keeping subscriptions and spamming email boxes from marketing emails. This damages transparency and user freedom risking the quality of the user experience.
Privacy issues
Dark UX emerges in dating apps when privacy is violated, such as revealing full names without requiring sign-in. They market their real names and information to attract more users. This practice not only violates user consent but also poses a risk by revealing personal information. Such breaches in privacy undermine trust and risk the safety of those using the platform.
Tricky selling
A deceptive UX practice involves auto-renewing data plans without explicit user notification, constituting a dark pattern in online services. This sneaky method takes advantage of users, catching them off guard with unexpected charges and damaging trust.
Force signup
if haven’t any serious privacy concerns, sign up before getting an idea about a service that prioritizes business interests over user flexibility. Businesses believe it’s a quick way to expand email lists. However, it becomes disrupting the user experience potentially driving them away. Users are happy to sign up after exploring the content.
As designers, we each have a responsibility to prioritize ethical design principles. Sometimes we are under pressure to adopt dark patterns for quick profit, and it is true some design decisions are outside of our control. You can only do is, Inform business owners about the long-term benefits of positive user experiences, emphasizing how ethical practices improve brand reputation and customer retention.
As a user have you ever experienced any of these or some other dark UX patterns? Comment below.
All of the examples I provide here are from my perspective. I’d love to hear your thoughts on it as well.
Disclaimer
Use of content:
For this study, I used several brand names and logos. This article is for educational purposes only. if you need any clarification regarding the removal of this article’s content, please contact me. LinkedIn.
