Dark patterns
Design tricks used by apps and websites to push people into choices they would not otherwise make, such as buying more, sharing more data, or staying online longer.
In plain English
Design tricks used by apps and websites to push people into choices they would not otherwise make, such as buying more, sharing more data, or staying online longer.
Why it matters
Children are particularly susceptible to dark patterns: fake \"streaks\", confusing privacy settings, near-impossible unsubscribe flows. The ICO\'s Children\'s Code and the CMA have both pushed back on these designs. Naming them helps children see manipulation clearly.
What to do
Parents and carers
Sit with your child and walk through the sign-up flow of a new app. Point out the nudges to share data, add friends, or accept defaults.
Teens
If an app makes it really hard to leave, log out, or stop notifications, that is a design choice, not your fault.
Sources
- Children\'s Code— Information Commissioner\'s Office
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17