When user experience is done well, it’s seamless, enhancing the user’s ability to complete their tasks and improving their overall enjoyment of the product. But what happens when UX is deliberately designed to deceive or trick users into actions they don’t want to take?

Dark design patterns are commonly seen in scenarios like signing up for a free trial. Often, users are forced to enter their credit card information first, with the hope that they’ll forget to cancel, leading to unintended charges.

Another example is TikTok. Recently, while using the app, I noticed that I couldn’t see the time at the top of my phone screen. The app purposely hides the clock, making it easier to lose track of time and spend longer on the platform.

Is this kind of design ethical? As designers, we should advocate for users, especially when working for companies that may prioritize profit or subscription numbers over a positive user experience. I aim to ensure that my designs prioritize the user’s well-being, avoiding manipulative tactics that trick users into making unintended choices.