We live in a time where the internet is one of the most important places where things are going on. We have to think wisely how this place is designed. We can’t accept a place which is designed for companies to manipulate their user for their own profit. In the worst case, they can mislead users and deceive by provoking purchase decisions and thus could cause financial, data losses or dependent behavior in adults and children. Most unconsciously fall for these tricks, don't even know Dark UX Pattern exist. Some people know that they exist, but think they would not be affected because they know their way around. But there are now so many techniques which are often so subtle that nobody is really safe from them. So user awareness only is not enough. And it is also very hard for the government to fix this, because it needs a lot of time to introduce strict regulation or pass laws. Till then companies have new methods to influence people.
But what if we turn it around?
What if users don't get influenced by the design of a website but the website get influenced by the users?
Imaging a tool, like a browser extension, which is active while you are surfing and warns you when you might be manipulated by a Dark UX pattern based on a huge database. While the database initially contains a lot of information about Dark UX Patterns that have already been researched, it is possible for many users to expand this information with reports as soon as he encounters a new Dark UX Pattern which is yet unknown for the tool. As a result, the latest methods are quickly recognized and it can be regulated dynamically. So companies have no chance to think of new influences. In addition, it directly represents the opinion of the users and experts.
I would call it a Manipulation Blocker
Most important for me is the trancparency of what is influenced by the tool and why. There should’t be a guardianship. Users should have the control, users decide what to hide and what not, also users decide what is named as a Dark UX Pattern by reporting it to the tool. And what’s also important ist, the design has to be subtle. It shouldn’t influence the surfing experience negatively.
Install the tool and activate it over the Icon of the browser menu.
You can decide how much the tool influences your view of the website.
You will be warned about manipulation or elements will be hidden to protect you.
If you don't know where to click to cancel your account the tool can navigate you to the right places.
Whenever you notice a Dark UX Pattern which is still unknown to the tool you can report it to expand the database.
If you are a Developer, UI/UX Designer or Product Designer feel free to contact me so that we can work together on this project. If you are already working on a similar idea feel free to use my research and design. Just inform me or credit my design. I would love to see this becoming a real thing.