Avoiding Dark Patterns
Dark patterns are design tricks that pressure or deceive visitors into doing things they did not intend — hidden costs, pre-ticked boxes, confusing cancellation, or fake urgency. They may lift short-term numbers but cause lasting harm.
Beyond the ethical problems, dark patterns increasingly breach UK consumer-protection rules and damage the trust that underpins repeat business, so avoiding them is simply good practice.
Common Dark Patterns
- Hidden fees revealed only at the final step.
- Making it far harder to cancel than to sign up.
- Pre-ticked boxes that add extras or sign-ups.
- Fake countdowns and false stock warnings.
Why They Backfire
Customers who feel tricked rarely return and often warn others. A small uplift in conversions today can cost you loyalty, refunds, complaints and reputation tomorrow, which is a poor trade.
Persuasion Without Deception
You can absolutely be persuasive while remaining honest. Clear benefits, genuine social proof and a smooth, transparent journey convert well and build the kind of trust that brings customers back.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.