“Dark patterns” in online services: a motivating study and agenda for future research
February 21, 2025
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Julian Runge, Daniel Wentzel, Ji Young Huh, Allison Chaney
This study examines how companies use "dark patterns" to make it difficult for customers to quit online services, such as by hiding cancelation procedures or requiring excessive steps. The authors call for further research into the organizational causes, customer reactions, and broader market impacts of these deceptive practices.