Indian Apps Caught Using Dark Patterns to Manipulate Users

New research by ASCI Academy and Parallel HQ reveals a concerning trend: deceptive design practices are prevalent in popular Indian apps.

The study, titled "Conscious Patterns," analyzed over 12,000 screens from 53 top apps across nine sectors. Shockingly, nearly all (52 out of 53) apps employed deceptive design elements, known as dark patterns. This widespread use can significantly impact user choice and trust.

Key Findings:

• Over 80% of apps exhibited deceptive patterns, particularly in settings and profile sections.
• Privacy deception was the most common pattern (observed in 79% of apps).
• Health-tech apps had the highest average of deceptive patterns per app (8.8), often using time pressure to influence decisions.
• E-commerce apps made account deletion difficult.
• Delivery apps were most likely to engage in "basket sneaking" (adding unwanted items).
• Streaming services and gaming apps had the lowest prevalence of deceptive patterns (1.8 and 2.4 per app, respectively).

Building a More Ethical App Design Landscape

The report offers resources to empower developers:

• Ethical Score Calculator: This tool assesses an app or website's susceptibility to deceptive patterns.
• Gallery of Inspiration: This showcases ethical design alternatives for developers to consider.

Industry Response:

The findings highlight the need for conscious design practices. NASSCOM, a leading IT industry body, is partnering with ASCI and Parallel to address this issue.

Quotes from Key Figures:

• Manisha Kapoor (ASCI): "Deceptive patterns harm consumer trust. We urge organizations to adopt ethical design principles."
• Robin Dhanwani (Parallel): "Our research highlights the need for a shift towards more transparent design practices. Ethical design builds user trust and drives innovation."

The report encourages app creators to prioritize user-centric design and informed decision-making, fostering a more ethical digital environment.