Dark Patterns

Data, AI, consent.

In early 2025, Figma rolled out AI features that came with a surprise: the company had automatically opted all users in to have their design files used for AI training.

Mailchimp's sign-up process uses a common deceptive tactic known as the "Trick Question".

The HRAcuity website uses a dark pattern by forcing users to accept cookies in order to access a video.

Audible, an audiobook and podcast service owned by Amazon, is known for its wide selection of audio content.

At first glance, this sign-up screen may look straightforward, but it uses a subtle dark pattern known as "pre-selection" to automatically opt users in to receive marketing emails.

Let's take a look at this screen.

Canceling a subscription should be easy.

In August 2024, the Washington, D.C. attorney general filed a lawsuit accusing StubHub of deceptive practices.

X recently introduced a new setting that allows them to use the content you posts to train their AI, Grok.

Reddit's persistent push for users to download its app, despite clear signs of disinterest, is an example of a classic dark pattern known as "nagging."

Despite repeatedly declining access to notifications and contacts, TikTok persistently asks for these permissions.

The cancellation process of TradingView is a great example of how companies manipulate users' emotions when cancelling their subscriptions.

The Roach Motel dark pattern has definitely been a hit over the last several seasons.

The Roach Motel dark pattern is a common tactic to make it harder for users to cancel their subscription.