User experience (UX) design plays a crucial role in the success of any digital product. However, some designers and developers may use unethical techniques known as “dark patterns” to manipulate users into taking actions they may not have otherwise chosen.

Dark patterns are tricks or deceptive design choices in user interfaces that can be used for malicious purposes, such as spreading malware. These malicious actors use dark patterns to deceive users, make them click on buttons they didn’t intend to, or lead them to malicious websites that distribute malware.

Therefore, it is essential to be aware of dark patterns in UX and how they can be used for cybersecurity threats. In this blog post, we will explore the definition of dark patterns in UX, how they can be used for malicious purposes, and the importance of awareness of dark patterns for cybersecurity.

Types of Dark Patterns

There are various types of dark patterns that designers and developers use to deceive users.

• Misdirection: This type of dark pattern uses visual cues or text to lead users to take unintended actions. For example, a website may use a large, colorful button to draw users’ attention away from a smaller, less noticeable button that actually performs the intended action.
• Forced action: In this type of dark pattern, designers force users to take specific actions to proceed, such as signing up for a service or agreeing to terms and conditions without giving them an option to opt-out. This type of dark pattern is often used to manipulate users into providing personal information or agreeing to unfavorable terms.
• Sneak into basket: This type of dark pattern involves adding items to a user’s shopping cart without their knowledge or consent, making them believe they have purchased a product. This is often used in e-commerce sites to increase sales, but can also be used to deceive users into buying unwanted products.
• Roach motel: A roach motel dark pattern is designed to make it easy for users to get into a certain situation but difficult for them to get out of it. For example, a subscription service may allow users to sign up easily but make it difficult to cancel their subscription.
• Confirm-shaming: This type of dark pattern uses language to shame users into taking a particular action. For example, a website may use a button that says “No thanks, I prefer to be unprepared” instead of “No thanks” to make users feel guilty about not taking a specific action.
• Bait and switch: This dark pattern involves advertising a product or service at a low price or with attractive features, only to switch to a different, less desirable product or service once the user is committed. This is often used in marketing and advertising to lure users in, but can also be used to deceive users into downloading malware or providing personal information.
• Friend spam: This type of dark pattern involves using a user’s social network to send unsolicited messages or invites to their friends. For example, a game may ask users to invite their friends to play in exchange for in-game rewards, but then send multiple spammy invites to their entire contact list without their knowledge.

Examples of Malware Spread Using Dark Patterns

Dark patterns can be used to spread various types of malware, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and more. Cybercriminals often use deceptive techniques to trick users into clicking on links or downloading files that contain malware. Here are some examples of how dark patterns can be used to spread malware:

• Phishing scams: Cybercriminals may use misdirection or forced action dark patterns to trick users into entering personal information on fake websites, which can then be used to steal their identity or spread malware. For example, a phishing scam may use a fake login page for a popular service like Facebook or PayPal, which can then steal the user’s credentials or infect their computer with malware.
• Malicious downloads: Dark patterns can also be used to trick users into downloading malicious software, such as trojans or ransomware. For example, a fake antivirus program may use a forced action dark pattern to make users believe their computer is infected, and then prompt them to download and install the program, which actually infects their computer with malware.
• Malvertising: Malvertising is a type of advertising that spreads malware through online ads. Cybercriminals can use dark patterns to trick users into clicking on malicious ads or downloading files that contain malware. For example, a malvertising campaign may use a bait and switch dark pattern to advertise a legitimate product, but then switch the ad to a fake download button that installs malware when clicked.
• Social engineering: Social engineering is a type of cyber attack that involves manipulating users into taking specific actions, such as clicking on a link or downloading a file. Dark patterns can be used to deceive users into thinking they are taking a safe action, when in reality they are downloading malware. For example, a social engineering attack may use a confirm-shaming dark pattern to make users believe they are protecting their computer by downloading a file, when in reality the file contains malware.
• How to Detect Malicious Dark Patterns
• To protect yourself from the dangers of dark patterns, it’s essential to know how to identify them. Here are the top 5 ways to detect malicious dark patterns:
• Pay attention to the design: Dark patterns often use visually appealing designs and language to draw users in. If something seems too good to be true or too pushy, it may be a dark pattern.
• Read the fine print: Be sure to read the terms and conditions, privacy policies, and other fine print to understand what you’re agreeing to before taking any action on a website or app.
• Be wary of urgency: Dark patterns often use urgency or time-sensitive language to pressure users into making a quick decision. Take a step back and consider your options before making a hasty decision.
• Check the URL: Make sure you’re on a legitimate website by checking the URL for spelling errors, unusual characters, or other red flags.
• Use reputable software and security tools: Protect yourself from malware and other security threats by using reputable antivirus software and security tools that can help detect and prevent malicious activity.

Conclusion – Malicious Dark Patterns

In conclusion, dark patterns are deceptive design techniques that can be used to trick users into taking actions they might not otherwise choose. While dark patterns can be used for benign purposes, they can also be used to spread malware and other malicious activities.

It’s crucial to be aware of dark patterns and how they work to protect yourself from these dangers. By paying attention to design, reading the fine print, being wary of urgency, checking the URL, and using reputable software and security tools, you can help protect yourself from the dangers of dark patterns and stay safe online. With greater awareness and vigilance, we can all work to make the internet a safer place.