Dark pattern
A dark pattern is a design technique used in websites or apps that tricks users into doing things they might not want to do. These patterns are often sneaky and manipulative, making it difficult for users to make informed choices.
For example, a website might use a dark pattern by placing a "Yes, accept all cookies" button in a prominent spot while hiding the "No, thanks" option in a small font or a less visible area. This can lead users to accidentally sign up for a service or share their personal information without fully realizing it.
Essentially, dark patterns exploit human psychology to benefit the company at the expense of the user. These are especially common in social media apps or online services. Sadly, young audiences are a good target for many companies to monetize, because they may not have yet developed the critical thinking skills needed to resist these tactics.