Pre-selection
1
Purpose
The purpose of the pre-selection pattern is to deceive users into adding additional products or services.
2
Psychological principles
This pattern uses the psychological principle of the default effect.
3
Prevention
Double-check your cart before paying and uncheck any pre-selected options to ensure you only buy what you need.
Behind the pattern
The default effect. People are more likely to stick with pre-selected options. By adding pre-selected options or making it hard to avoid additional products or services, users are more inclined to allow the “upgrade.”
Types of pre-selection
Sneak into basket
Sneak into basket happens when a product or service appears in the checkout basket despite not being added by the user. This pattern can include adding additional warranty, upgrading a product or service, or adding additional products.
Note: The difference between “sneak into basket” and “hidden costs” is that hidden costs do not inherently involve additional goods or services. For example, a high maintenance fee would be considered a hidden cost, not a sneak into basket pattern.
How to protect yourself
Review your cart carefully. Verify what you bought, how much it costs, and even how many your purchased to ensure there isn’t any hidden products, services, or upgrades.
Uncheck pre-check options. It’s a good rule of thumb to uncheck any pre-checked box. However, it’s always best to read carefully to avoid unchecking mandatory check-boxes or additions that you may find valuable.