Social pyramid
1
Purpose
The purpose of social pyramid is to manipulate users into getting their friends to join the game.
2
Psychological principles
This pattern is up front, but costly. It leverages the psychological principle of fear of missing out (FOMO).
3
Prevention
Users can protect themselves by avoiding games or businesses that heavily rely on referrals.
Note: This is similar to friend spam, but while friend spam doesn’t include any form of consent, social pyramid does.
How to protect yourself
Review permissions. To send invites, websites, and apps need access to your social media or contacts. Ensure that these permissions are only allowed in situations you trust.