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Deceptive Patterns

Types Hall of shame Laws Enforcement Reading list Books About

Types Hall of shame Laws Enforcement Reading list Books About

19 types

Addictive DesignThe user interacts with the product excessively, because its design exploits psychological vulnerabilities to foster compulsive behaviour.Basket sneaking; Confirm shaming; Forced action Comparison preventionThe user struggles to compare products because features and prices are combined in a complex manner, or because essential information is hard to find. ConfirmshamingThe user is emotionally manipulated into doing something that they would not otherwise have done. Currency ConfusionThe user is misled about how much they are really spending, because real money is converted into a virtual currency that obscures the true cost.Disguised adsThe user mistakenly believes they are clicking on an interface element or native content, but it's actually a disguised advertisment. Fake scarcityThe user is pressured into completing an action because they are presented with a fake indication of limited supply or popularity.Fake social proofThe user is misled into believing a product is more popular or credible than it really is, because they were shown fake reviews, testimonials, or activity messages.Fake urgencyThe user is pressured into completing an action because they are presented with a fake time limitation.Forced actionThe user wants to do something, but they are required to do something else undesirable in return.Hard to cancelThe user finds it easy to sign up or subscribe, but when they want to cancel they find it very hard. Hidden costsThe user is enticed with a low advertised price. After investing time and effort, they discover unexpected fees and charges when they reach the checkout.Hidden subscriptionThe user is unknowingly enrolled in a recurring subscription or payment plan without clear disclosure or their explicit consent.NaggingThe user tries to do something, but they are persistently interrupted by requests to do something else that may not be in their best interests. ObstructionThe user is faced with barriers or hurdles, making it hard for them to complete their task or access information.PreselectionThe user is presented with a default option that has already been selected for them, in order to influence their decision-making. SneakingThe user is drawn into a transaction on false pretences, because pertinent information is hidden or delayed from being presented to them. Trick wordingThe user is misled into taking an action, due to the presentation of confusing or misleading language. Visual interferenceThe user expects to see information presented in a clear and predictable way on the page, but it is hidden, obscured or disguised.

Addictive Design

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