There's a Concerning Deceptive Trend : Called "Dark Patterns"

User experience (UX) is supreme, and consumers expect websites to be intuitive, user-friendly and transparent. But, there's a very concerning trend happening called "dark patterns" which undermines this. Dark patterns are unfair and deceptive design elements meant to trick users into unintended actions - like purchasing a product or signing up for a subscription without even realizing it.

Why Avoid Dark Patterns? : The Cons Outweigh The Pros

Using dark patterns might seem like a quick way to boost conversions, but the cons far outweigh the pros:

  • Damaged Reputation: Customers feeling deceived are unlikely to return or recommend your products or services. Dark patterns wear away trust and damage your brand reputation.
  • Legal Repercussions: In some places, certain dark patterns violate consumer protection laws, and the FTC is cracking down on them. These violations can lead to hefty fines and ugly legal trouble.
  • Unethical Practices: Dark patterns prioritize short-term gain over user well-being. They contradict the values of a conscious brand that prioritizes transparency and ethical business practices.
A businessman looks at his computer screen, with his hands up, confused and frustrated by dark patterns on the website he is viewing.
A businessman looks at his computer screen, with his hands up, confused and frustrated by dark patterns on the website he is viewing.

Common Dark Patterns : And How to Avoid Them

Here are some of the most common dark patterns and how you can ensure your website is free of them:

  • Hidden Costs: Don't bury additional fees or charges until the checkout stage. Be upfront about all costs associated with a product or service. No surprises.
  • Confirm Shaming: Avoid guilt-tripping users who try to unsubscribe or cancel a service. Make the opt-out process clear and straightforward for them.
  • Trick Questions: Don't use confusing or misleading verbiage to manipulate users into unwanted actions. Keep it real.
  • Sneaky Opt-Ins: Having already checked boxes for newsletters or subscriptions are a big no-no. Users should explicitly opt-in to receive communications from you.
  • Limited-Time Offers (FOMO): Creating a sense of urgency with fake countdowns or limited-availability claims can pressure users into rushed decisions. Avoid regrets.
A young woman lays across her couch with her laptop in front of her, with her hands up in the air, looking confused and frustrated with being mislead by dark patterns on the website she's visiting.
A young woman lays across her couch with her laptop in front of her, with her hands up in the air, looking confused and frustrated with being mislead by dark patterns on the website she's visiting.

Building Trustworthy Websites : The Principles we Follow at 5280Devs

Here are some key principles we follow here at 5280Devs when designing user-friendly and ethical websites:

  • Transparency: Being clear about pricing, terms of service, and data privacy practices.
  • Simplicity: Prioritizing a clean, well-organized website layout that is easy for your visitors to navigate.
  • User Control: Empowering users to make informed choices. Making it easy for them to opt-out of communication or subscriptions.
  • Accessibility: Ensuring your website is accessible to users with disabilities (ADA Compliance).
  • Ethical Design: We approach UX design with integrity. We focus on creating a positive user experience that builds trust, not manipulation.

By avoiding dark patterns and prioritizing ethical design principles, we're able to create websites that are not only user-friendly but also align with the values of your conscious brand. Remember, a trustworthy website is an investment in your long-term success.

"Click-to-Cancel" Rule UPDATE: : Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Finalizes new "Click-to-Cancel" Rule

On 16 Oct 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) finalized a new rule called the "Click-to-Cancel" rule. This rule aims to make it easier for consumers to cancel recurring subscriptions and memberships.

What are the key points of the rule?:

  • Easier cancellation: Businesses will be required to offer a "simple mechanism" for cancelling subscriptions. This means cancellation should be at least as easy as signing up for the service in the first place.
  • Same medium cancellation: If you signed up online, you should be able to cancel online. Phone sign-ups should allow phone cancellations.
  • "Click to Cancel": Companies can't require you to talk to a customer service representative to cancel if you didn't need to do that to sign up.
  • Recordkeeping: Businesses must keep records of your consent to the subscription for up to 3 years.

This rule is intended to prevent companies from making it difficult for consumers to cancel subscriptions they no longer want.

Learn more here: Federal Trade Commission Announces Final “Click-to-Cancel” Rule Making It Easier for Consumers to End Recurring Subscriptions and Memberships

Dig Deeper: : Additional Resources on Dark Patterns.

Interested in learning more about Dark Patterns? Here are some more great reads on this topic: