Dark Patterns in UI: User Awareness and Ethical Implications

Dark Patterns in UI: User Awareness and Ethical Implications

Anusha Sanghavi

ITM SLS Baroda University

Guided by: Prof. Shivangi Matieda

Abstract- In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the prevalence of dark patterns in user interfaces (UI) presents substantial ethical challenges and heightens the need for user awareness. Dark patterns are manipulative design tactics that exploit cognitive biases, misleading users into making decisions that may not align with their best interests. As highlighted in recent research, a majority of users are aware of these deceptive techniques; however, they often struggle to effectively combat them due to various barriers such as a lack of awareness, cognitive biases, and the allure of short-term benefits (Singh V et al.). Furthermore, the ability to recognize these patterns is often limited by unclear interface information and pervasive marketing strategies that blend seamlessly with harmful designs (Zahratunnisa HS et al.). This underscores an urgent need for improved consumer education and ethical design practices, fostering a digital ecosystem that prioritizes transparency and user empowerment in the face of manipulative tactics."