75.7% of Subscription Service Websites and Mobile Apps Worldwide Use Dark Patterns

-27 consumer protection agencies in 26 countries participated in the Internet Sweep led by the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN)-

The use of dark patterns online is rampant around the world. The Korea Consumer Agency (President Yoon Soo-hyun) announced that this was revealed as a result of the 2024 International Internet Sweep Campaign conducted in 26 countries by the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN).

Dark patterns refer to commercial practices that induce, deceive, coerce and manipulate consumers into making choices that do not cater to their interests.

The sweep, which was participated in by 27 consumer protection organizations around the world, including the Korea Consumer Agency, identified the use by digital subscription service providers of the seven types* of dark patterns classified by the OECD. The sweep took place over a period of five days from January 29 to February 2, 2024.