FIMS Publications
Document Type
Working Paper
Publication Date
3-15-2024
First Page
1
Last Page
10
Abstract
Dark patterns are user interface (UI) design elements that influence users to take actions that benefit an online service and that are generally not in the user’s best interest. Studies show that users demonstrate some awareness of and ability to identify dark patterns. Users also report experiencing negative emotions such as annoyance when encountering these tactics online. Yet, while users may abstractly understand that dark patterns exist, there is a disconnect between this understanding and their behavioural responses to manipulative design. Research has experimentally determined that dark patterns are effective at influencing users’ behaviour across different online activities, including consenting to tracking cookies and signing up for subscriptions. Thus, although users are somewhat aware of dark patterns, they remain susceptible or inured to their influence. This narrative review synthesizes and analyzes findings from recent studies to assess users' perceptions of and behavioural responses to dark patterns, developments in the growing field of automatic dark pattern detection, and the need for regulatory initiatives to combat these manipulative practices.