The Garante, has published an information page on ‘dark patterns’ – manipulative practices used by some websites to influence users’ decisions. The page aims to raise awareness of such practices and their impact on user privacy.
Dark patterns are interface design techniques that mislead users or induce them to perform actions that are not beneficial to them, such as sharing personal information or agreeing to unwanted services. In some cases, dark patterns can be used to breach data protection laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
An information page developed by Garante provides examples of ‘dark patterns’ that are worth knowing to avoid unwanted data sharing. In addition, the site offers advice on how to protect your privacy online and tips on how to report a privacy breach.
Garante stresses that data protection legislation aims to give users more control over their personal data, and that it is illegal to mislead them into consenting to data processing. As such, the Italian regulator encourages users to report any use of ‘dark patterns’ that may breach data protection laws.
The publication of an information page on ‘dark patterns’ by the Garante is an important step towards raising public awareness of the privacy risks posed by these unethical practices. In response to growing concerns about user privacy, regulators around the world are starting to pay more attention to the issue of dark patterns and their impact on data protection.