Dr Harry Brignull holds a PhD in cognitive science and has spent more than two decades working in user experience as a researcher, designer and consultant. In 2010 he founded this website — then called darkpatterns.org, now deceptive.design — and coined the term “dark patterns” to name the manipulative, deceptive and coercive design techniques used to trick people online. He is the author of Deceptive Patterns, a book that catalogues these techniques and explains how to recognise and resist them.
The vocabulary and taxonomy Harry developed have since moved from the design community into law and regulation. Concepts first documented here have been referenced in legislation and enforcement around the world, including the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) and Digital Markets Act (DMA), the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), and numerous regulatory actions. His work is widely cited by academics, regulators and journalists.
Harry has been interviewed or quoted on the subject of deceptive patterns by many of the world’s leading news organisations, including:
- The BBC
- The New York Times
- CNN
- CBC and ABC
- Vox and Fast Company
- Consumer Reports and Marketplace
Alongside his campaigning and writing, Harry works as an expert witness in lawsuits that involve deceptive patterns, particularly in matters of consumer protection, subscription and cancellation flows, and online manipulation. He welcomes enquiries regarding expert witness and consulting services — you can read more at testimonium.co.