FTC finds 'dark patterns' used by a majority of subscription apps and websites
The FTC study reveals most subscription apps and websites employ manipulative "dark patterns" affecting user privacy and behavior. Findings prompt increased FTC scrutiny on consumer fraud amid ongoing industry deception concerns.
Read original article
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released a study revealing that a majority of subscription apps and websites use "dark patterns," manipulative design techniques that can compromise user privacy or push them into actions they wouldn't otherwise take. The study analyzed 642 platforms and found that nearly 76% employed at least one dark pattern, with almost 67% using multiple. Common dark patterns identified included sneaking, obstruction, nagging, forced action, and social proof. The report suggests increased FTC scrutiny on consumer fraud, coinciding with the U.S. Department of Justice's lawsuit against Apple for alleged App Store monopoly practices. The study, conducted in collaboration with international consumer protection networks, highlighted various dark pattern types and their prevalence in subscription services. The FTC's involvement in this study aligns with its ongoing efforts to address deceptive practices across industries, emphasizing the importance of protecting consumer rights in digital environments.
Related
European Union regulators accuse Apple of breaching the bloc's tech rules
EU accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations for restricting App Store alternatives and charging high developer fees. New probe initiated on contractual terms. Apple defends changes, faces potential fines up to 10%.
Apple found in breach of EU competition rules
Apple breached EU competition rules by not complying with the Digital Markets Act, hindering app developers from directing consumers to alternative channels. The company faces fines if not compliant within 12 months.
EU Accuses Apple App Store Steering Rules of Violating DMA, Opens Investigation
The European Commission accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations related to App Store policies, anti-steering rules, and excessive fees. Apple claims compliance with the law. Investigation ongoing, potential fines pending.
Distrust in Big Tech Fuels Adblocker Usage Among 52% of Americans
Amid rising data privacy concerns, 52% of Americans use adblockers primarily for privacy. Tech entities like Google and OpenAI face trust issues. Consumers demand data control and transparency for trust.
Majority of sites and apps use dark patterns in the marketing of subscriptions
A global internet sweep by ICPEN found 75.7% of traders' websites used dark patterns. The sweep involved 27 authorities from 26 countries, aiming to address consumer protection and privacy regulations overlap. Reports highlighted deceptive design techniques impacting consumer rights.
2 commentsI see it all the time with my app. It's stated several times on the sign up screen that it's auto-renewing. Yet, somehow, people are mad when the renewal happens, or the overdraft occurs, for a $0.99 purchase.
Doesn't matter if you don't read the paper that's delivered to your house every morning, the service is still provided. Same thing with app services.
If you signed up for it, you signed up for it. Not my fault if you fail to cancel it if you're not using/reading it.
Related
European Union regulators accuse Apple of breaching the bloc's tech rules
EU accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations for restricting App Store alternatives and charging high developer fees. New probe initiated on contractual terms. Apple defends changes, faces potential fines up to 10%.
Apple found in breach of EU competition rules
Apple breached EU competition rules by not complying with the Digital Markets Act, hindering app developers from directing consumers to alternative channels. The company faces fines if not compliant within 12 months.
EU Accuses Apple App Store Steering Rules of Violating DMA, Opens Investigation
The European Commission accuses Apple of Digital Markets Act violations related to App Store policies, anti-steering rules, and excessive fees. Apple claims compliance with the law. Investigation ongoing, potential fines pending.
Distrust in Big Tech Fuels Adblocker Usage Among 52% of Americans
Amid rising data privacy concerns, 52% of Americans use adblockers primarily for privacy. Tech entities like Google and OpenAI face trust issues. Consumers demand data control and transparency for trust.
Majority of sites and apps use dark patterns in the marketing of subscriptions
A global internet sweep by ICPEN found 75.7% of traders' websites used dark patterns. The sweep involved 27 authorities from 26 countries, aiming to address consumer protection and privacy regulations overlap. Reports highlighted deceptive design techniques impacting consumer rights.