Dark patterns – warning signs when shopping online
February 8, 2023
We’re all shopping online more and more, but recent sweeps across the EU which the CCPC took part in found ‘dark patterns’ on some websites. These dark patterns push consumers to make choices that they otherwise wouldn’t. This can sometimes influence our decisions to buy. To help you recognise the signs we have put together some tips on what to watch out for when browsing for a bargain.
Countdown timers
Online shops may show you an offer alongside a countdown timer. As the timer is counting down you may feel pressured into buying before the offer expires. These countdowns may not be genuine. A good way to check is to see if reloading the page causes the timer to reset.
You should always ask yourself if the product is worth the money and whether you really need the item when you’re looking at an offer. A coat reduced from €400 to €200 is not a saving of €200 if you aren’t going to wear it, for example.
False hierarchy
Many of us regularly search online, but when searching for items on a website some retailers may not show the results in an unbiased way. Design could be used to make the shop’s preferred option appear more prominent. This could be by forcing it to the top of the results or presenting it larger or more colourful than other options.
Always make sure to check out all the options before buying. Compare multiple options on the website, as well as comparing different websites. Make sure you’re buying the best item for you at the best value for you.
Hiding information
Under consumer law, businesses must give you certain information before you buy. During the sweeps carried out by the European Commission, some online shops were found to be hiding important information. If this happened to you, you may be entitled to a refund. Learn more about your right to information when you shop online.
Check where the business is based
As well as watching for dark patterns, you should always check the location of the business you are buying from. If you buy from outside the EU you won’t have the same rights when you shop online. You may also have to pay taxes and charges on any items you receive.
Remember, a .ie domain name isn’t a guarantee of an Irish based business. You should always read the terms and conditions to make sure you know where a website is based.
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