Government Takes Action to Protect Consumers from Online 'Dark Patterns' on E-Commerce Platforms

Dark patterns are intentionally deceptive designs used by companies to manipulate consumers into making choices that are not in their best interest. These practices, such as making it difficult to cancel subscriptions or pressuring users into making purchases, are common among mainstream companies. The Federal Trade Commission has taken action against companies like Amazon and Epic Games for using dark patterns. While regulators' actions send a signal to companies, there is a need for federal laws specifically banning dark patterns to protect consumer pocketbooks and privacy. Consumers can fight back by slowing down, understanding cancellation processes, documenting dark patterns, and making complaints to relevant authorities.