# Dark Patterns Dark patterns are user interface design techniques that deliberately manipulate people into making choices they would not otherwise make—such as subscribing to services, sharing personal data, or waiving rights. Common tactics include hidden opt-outs, confusing cancellation flows, and shame-based language on decline buttons. The concept sits at the intersection of [[Surveillance Capitalism]] and [[Behavioral Economics]], where insights from the [[Nudge]] framework are weaponized against user interests rather than deployed for them. [[Big Tech]] companies have faced increasing regulatory scrutiny over dark patterns, particularly under the [[GDPR]] in Europe. Critics argue that dark patterns represent a systemic failure of [[Privacy]] protections, turning the relationship between platforms and users into one of extraction rather than service.