The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that cyber thieves are getting more creative in developing a new technique called “dark patterns” to trick consumers into giving up their personal information. These “dark patterns” aren’t only used by cybercriminals. The report also outlines how businesses are using these to trap their consumers.
Dark patterns are schemes and website elements designed to trick consumers into making decisions they didn’t intend to or know of. Dark patterns can also prevent a user from completing their original task. These can confuse consumers and guide them on a path that ends up revealing their personal information, agreeing to terms, or even making purchases without full knowledge of it happening.
Examples of Dark Patterns:
Website displays a countdown timer, implying the offer will end
Displaying a banner that implies a very limited supply
Banner with an advertisement that will not go away, no matter how many times you close it
Numerous links or complicated instructions to unsubscribe or cancel membership
“Escalating” your request to receive “free” products, such as providing your name, phone number, email address, etc.
Lack of notice that a free trial is ending and that you’ll be charged fees soon
Hidden fees and required account sign-ups, typically shown at the checkout of e-commerce websites
Use of double negatives, for example, “don’t not sell my information”
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