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.

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.

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: