{"id":14321,"date":"2024-02-10T20:33:36","date_gmt":"2024-02-10T19:33:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/"},"modified":"2025-05-24T17:01:28","modified_gmt":"2025-05-24T15:01:28","slug":"ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/","title":{"rendered":"Ethical design: Don&#8217;t allow yourself to be manipulated!"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; bottom_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;typography-section-intro&#8221;]Ethical design should protect users, but insidious dark patterns often lead to manipulation. Learn more about 10 common tricks that cross ethical boundaries.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #1c1c1c;color:#1c1c1c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #1c1c1c;color:#1c1c1c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#The_dark_side_of_design\" >The dark side of design<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Examples_of_manipulation_in_design\" >Examples of manipulation in design<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Forced_registration_Forced_Continuity\" >Forced registration (Forced Continuity)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Confusing_navigation\" >Confusing navigation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Hidden_costs\" >Hidden costs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Countdown_timer_FOMO\" >Countdown timer (FOMO)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#More_traps_and_subtle_tricks\" >More traps and subtle tricks<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Misdirection_distraction\" >Misdirection (distraction)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Roach_Motel_cockroach_trap\" >Roach Motel (cockroach trap)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Privacy_Zuckering\" >Privacy Zuckering<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Price_Comparison_Prevention\" >Price Comparison Prevention<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Sneak_into_Basket_Secretly_add_to_shopping_cart\" >Sneak into Basket (Secretly add to shopping cart)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Confirmshaming\" >Confirmshaming<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Disguised_Ads_hidden_advertising\" >Disguised Ads (hidden advertising)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Forced_Action\" >Forced Action<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Conclusion_Ethical_design_requires_more_than_simply_avoiding_manipulation\" >Conclusion: Ethical design requires more than simply avoiding manipulation.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Sources\" >Sources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/ethical-design-dont-allow-yourself-to-be-manipulated\/#Links\" >Links<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_dark_side_of_design\"><\/span>The dark side of design<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\u201cDark patterns\u201d are the epitome of manipulative design. They hide information or force users to take unwanted actions. Such techniques contradict the core of ethical design, which demands transparency and respect. Ethical design sets clear boundaries here: Users must always understand what they are doing, why they are doing it and what the consequences are. Anything else undermines trust and damages user loyalty in the long term.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;60&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1725527160614{margin-bottom: 30px !important;}&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Examples_of_manipulation_in_design\"><\/span>Examples of manipulation in design<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-2-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;right&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][nectar_icon icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; icon_style=&#8221;default&#8221; icon_color_type=&#8221;color_scheme&#8221; icon_color=&#8221;extra-color-gradient-1&#8243; icon_padding=&#8221;0px&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-exclamation-triangle&#8221; margin_bottom=&#8221;0&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Forced_registration_Forced_Continuity\"><\/span>Forced registration (Forced Continuity)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>After a free trial period, users are automatically transferred to a paid subscription without being clearly informed that they need to cancel. Many streaming platforms or software providers use this method to retain users for longer. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> Netflix offers a free trial period, but then seamlessly transfers the user to a subscription if they do not cancel in time.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-2-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;right&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][nectar_icon icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; icon_style=&#8221;default&#8221; icon_color_type=&#8221;color_scheme&#8221; icon_color=&#8221;extra-color-gradient-1&#8243; icon_padding=&#8221;0px&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-exclamation-triangle&#8221; margin_bottom=&#8221;0&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Confusing_navigation\"><\/span>Confusing navigation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>These designs are intended to deliberately cause users to press the wrong button. Examples include \u201cDecline\u201d and \u201cAccept\u201d buttons that are intentionally designed to confuse the user and, for example, unintentionally consent to receiving newsletters or other notifications. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> Many newsletter subscription forms rely on small-print unsubscribe options or hide the unsubscribe button. A classic example of such confusing navigation can be found on airline booking platforms that pre-select insurance or additional services.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-2-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;right&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][nectar_icon icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; icon_style=&#8221;default&#8221; icon_color_type=&#8221;color_scheme&#8221; icon_color=&#8221;extra-color-gradient-1&#8243; icon_padding=&#8221;0px&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-exclamation-triangle&#8221; margin_bottom=&#8221;0&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hidden_costs\"><\/span>Hidden costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>With many e-commerce websites, hidden fees or additional charges are not disclosed until the end of the checkout process. These surprise costs can be shipping costs, handling fees or taxes that are intentionally added as late as possible to influence the buying process. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> When booking flights on platforms such as Ryanair, baggage costs are often only added in the final step of the payment process. A potential user is already heavily invested, which increases the likelihood that they will complete the purchase instead of abandoning it.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-2-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;right&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][nectar_icon icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; icon_style=&#8221;default&#8221; icon_color_type=&#8221;color_scheme&#8221; icon_color=&#8221;extra-color-gradient-1&#8243; icon_padding=&#8221;0px&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-exclamation-triangle&#8221; margin_bottom=&#8221;0&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Countdown_timer_FOMO\"><\/span>Countdown timer (FOMO)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Websites often use countdown timers to create a sense of urgency and encourage users to make hasty decisions. This artificially created urgency is based on the fear of missing out on a limited offer. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Example:<\/strong> E-commerce websites such as Amazon or Booking.com use countdown timers for special offers, even if there is in fact no time pressure. This is intended to encourage the user to complete the purchase more quickly before possibly reconsidering the purchase.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;60&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More_traps_and_subtle_tricks\"><\/span>More traps and subtle tricks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]In addition to the classic dark patterns, there are a number of subtle but equally manipulative design strategies that make life difficult for users and often unintentionally influence decisions. Here is a brief overview of these other types, which are just as ethically questionable:[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Misdirection_distraction\"><\/span>Misdirection (distraction)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Visual or textual distractions direct the user&#8217;s focus to something other than what they originally intended. Irrelevant or superfluous information is often used to obscure critical details. <\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Roach_Motel_cockroach_trap\"><\/span>Roach Motel (cockroach trap)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This pattern makes it very easy to sign up for a service or subscribe to something, but extremely difficult to cancel the subscription or service.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Privacy_Zuckering\"><\/span>Privacy Zuckering<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Users are tempted to share more personal information than they actually intended. This is often achieved through long, complex privacy policies or pre-set consents. <\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Price_Comparison_Prevention\"><\/span>Price Comparison Prevention<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>This strategy prevents the user from easily comparing prices by making information about alternative products or services difficult to find or incomprehensible.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sneak_into_Basket_Secretly_add_to_shopping_cart\"><\/span>Sneak into Basket (Secretly add to shopping cart)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Additional items or services are secretly added to the shopping cart, often through preset checkmarks or hidden buttons.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Confirmshaming\"><\/span>Confirmshaming<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Users are persuaded to take an action because the opt-out option is worded in such a way that it evokes feelings of guilt or shame (e.g. \u201cNo, I don&#8217;t want to save money\u201d).<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Disguised_Ads_hidden_advertising\"><\/span>Disguised Ads (hidden advertising)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Advertising is designed to look like a normal part of the user interface so that the user does not recognize that it is an advertisement.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Forced_Action\"><\/span>Forced Action<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>The user is forced to perform an unwanted action in order to continue, such as creating an account before being able to buy a product or use a service.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner top_padding_desktop=&#8221;60&#8243; bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;60&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;60&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;60&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; border_top_desktop=&#8221;4&#8243; border_bottom_desktop=&#8221;4&#8243; column_border_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][nectar_single_testimonial testimonial_style=&#8221;small_modern&#8221; image=&#8221;4364&#8243; color=&#8221;Default&#8221; quote=&#8221;Every design influences user decisions. However, the difference between persuasion and manipulation lies in the intention and transparency of the design decisions.&#8221; name=&#8221;Norbert Kathriner&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-6-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#f5f5f7&#8243; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_Ethical_design_requires_more_than_simply_avoiding_manipulation\"><\/span>Conclusion: Ethical design requires more than simply avoiding manipulation.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>It is about creating a culture of transparency.<\/p>\n<p>Designers have an immense responsibility &#8211; and this should never be treated lightly. Only by consciously and critically examining the ethical implications of our work can we create positive, respectful and sustainable user experiences in the long term.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;]<div class=\"nectar-fancy-ul\" data-list-icon=\"fa fa-external-link\" data-animation=\"false\" data-animation-delay=\"0\" data-color=\"accent-color\" data-spacing=\"default\" data-alignment=\"left\"> \n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sources\"><\/span>Sources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dmcgroup.eu\/focus\/digitales-produktdesign-im-einklang-mit-dem-european-accessibility-act\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Digital product design in line with the European Accessibility Act<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dmcgroup.eu\/blog\/user-experience\/barrierefreies-webdesign-checkliste\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Checklist for accessible web design<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div><div class=\"nectar-fancy-ul\" data-list-icon=\"fa fa-link\" data-animation=\"false\" data-animation-delay=\"0\" data-color=\"accent-color\" data-spacing=\"default\" data-alignment=\"left\"> \n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Links\"><\/span>Links<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"Dark patterns: UX designs that control users unconsciously\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/dark-patterns-ux-designs-that-control-users-unconsciously\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Dark patterns: UX designs that control users unconsciously<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Accessibility in UX design\" href=\"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/accessibility-in-ux-design-more-than-just-a-nice-to-have\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Accessibility in UX design<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Design influences our behavior. But where does helpful user guidance end and manipulative control begin?   <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6685,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[43],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-14321","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-innovations-in-ux-design"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14321","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14321"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14321\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6685"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14321"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14321"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/norbert-kathriner.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14321"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}