Deceptive patterns in user interfaces
Recently, I read a couple of compelling blog post about deceptive patterns in user interfaces copy. An essential read to understand what they are, how they’re used to deceive people and how to recognise them.
The many examples of UI deceptive patterns in the articles show how shady the internet has become, with the line between encouraging people to use a product and tricking them into handing over personal data or money being thinner than ever. The articles are an essential read if you are:
- A designer, so that you’re aware of the many practises and how you can push back if your company uses them.
- A person who navigates the internet and uses services.
- Interested in exploring ethical and privacy-focused alternatives to the most used services.
Read the articles
- We Value Your Privacy (At About $0.50): Dark Patterns in UI Copy by Graeme Fulton
- Dark Patterns in Your Everyday App by Mariana Vargas
Important note
While the articles shared here use the adjective ’dark’ to describe deceptive patterns, there is a conversation around the bad connotation it has. As of 9 January 2023, I have updated the language I use to be more inclusive and not discriminatory.
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- On ‘deceptive patterns’ and wording
- I deleted all occurrences of the adjective ’dark’ when used to describe deceptive patterns on my website, in a bid to be more inclusive and not discriminatory.