The Dark Patterns Keeping You From Opting Out of Data Sharing Are Darker Than Ever, Study Finds
A new report by the Electronic Privacy Information Center highlights manipulative design patterns in the opt-out processes of major companies that hinder users from protecting their personal data. Despite existing privacy laws, many companies employ confusing tactics that give the illusion of choice. The report emphasizes the real-world consequences of these practices, particularly for vulnerable populations.
- ▪The report analyzed the opt-out processes of 38 major companies, including social media platforms and data brokers.
- ▪Many companies use manipulative design patterns that confuse consumers and discourage them from opting out of data sharing.
- ▪The report calls for companies to evaluate their opt-out processes and for regulators to strengthen privacy laws.
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“Good luck,” the Electronic Privacy Information Center tells internet users trying to keep their personal data from being shared across the web. The nonprofit research center published a new report on Wednesday analyzing what it calls “manipulative design patterns” in the opt-out processes of 38 major companies, including data brokers, social media platforms, dating apps, and AI…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Gizmodo.
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