Deceptive patterns are everywhere…

DEFINITION

A deceptive pattern is an interface design that intends to manipulate users into doing something that benefits a company, often at the expense of the user.

DEFINITION

A deceptive pattern is an interface design that intends to manipulate users into doing something that benefits a company, often at the expense of the user.

DEFINITION

A deceptive pattern is an interface design that intends to manipulate users into doing something that benefits a company, often at the expense of the user.

2025

56

%

of popular e-commerce sites use at least one dark pattern.

Panjaitan, N. V., & Watanabe, K.

Panjaitan, N. V., & Watanabe, K.

Panjaitan, N. V., & Watanabe, K.

2025

$

500

in unintended purchases annually due to deceptive patterns.

Rauniyar, N

Rauniyar, N

Rauniyar, N

2024

0

%

of platforms offer true opt-out cookie consent banners.

Tuokkola, N.


Tuokkola, N.


Tuokkola, N.


Types of deceptive patterns

Nagging

Nagging uses repeated interruptions to urge users into action—typically through pop-ups.

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Obstruction

Overcomplicated screens that discourage certain actions.

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Sneaking

Any attempt to hide, disguise, or delay information that’s relevant to users.

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Misdirection

Overcomplicated screens that discourage certain actions.

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Forced action

Users are required to perform an action to access certain features.

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Emotional manipulation

Any use of design or copy that is intended to emotionally sway the user into performing an action.

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Social manipulation

Manipulates people’s desire to fit in or avoid embarrassment to entice users to act.

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Davishedrick.com

Davishedrick.com

Davishedrick.com