Source: The Verge
Summary
Hopper, a travel booking app, has agreed to pay $35 million to settle allegations by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that it used deceptive “dark patterns” to hide fees and mislead travelers about the cost and benefits of its services. According to the FTC, Hopper’s tactics included hiding fees, making it difficult for users to cancel bookings, and using misleading advertisements. The settlement also requires Hopper to change its business practices.
Our Reading
The announcement sounds ambitious.
Hopper’s $35 million settlement with the FTC is the latest example of a company getting caught using “dark patterns” to deceive users. The travel booking app allegedly hid fees and misled travelers about the cost and benefits of its services. This isn’t the first time a company has been called out for using these tactics, and it won’t be the last. Hopper’s settlement is just another reminder that “dark patterns” are a thing, and regulators are finally paying attention. Because what’s new is just old tricks with a fresh coat of paint.
Dark Patterns: The Old New Thing
“Dark patterns” are design choices that intentionally mislead or deceive users into doing something they might not want to do. They’re not new, but they’re getting more attention from regulators.
The FTC Weighs In
The FTC has been cracking down on companies that use “dark patterns” to deceive users. Hopper’s settlement is just the latest example.
A Familiar Script
The settlement follows a familiar script: company uses deceptive tactics, gets caught, and pays a fine. But will Hopper actually change its business practices?
The Cost of Deception
Hopper’s settlement is a significant one, but it’s just a drop in the bucket for a company that has raised hundreds of millions of dollars in funding.
Regulators Are Watching
The FTC’s settlement with Hopper is a reminder that regulators are paying attention to “dark patterns” and will take action when they find them.
Author: Evan Null
