'Dark patterns' are design features and functionalities built into the user interface of websites and apps that purely exist to influence consumer behaviour – often not in the consumer’s best interest.

This report looks closely at ten dark patterns common in Australia today, ranging from those that are ubiquitous and frustrating for consumers to those that are possibly misleading and deceptive and can lead to significant consumer harm.

This report:

• provides an overview of the ten dark patterns that are prevalent for Australian consumers
• presents the Australian consumer experience of dark patterns
• outlines what next steps could look like, including actions businesses, regulators and government can take in addressing and mitigating consumer harm.