Privacy UX

In light of recent events, where data breaches scandals made the headlines, user privacy has been a subject that sparked interest, as new regulations such as GDPR and CCPA have been implemented by regulatory bodies.

Businesses have been made aware that privacy in the online space is something users yearn for. By offering ethical privacy solutions, brands stand out and build a more genuine and authentic relationship with their customers.

Customers of today and the future are leaning towards transparency and trust. They demand more privacy today, not less.

— Anas Baig from SECURITI.ai

In this article, I am going to highlight some dark UX patterns used to mislead users, and how to follow a more ethical approach in UX.

Context

To better understand the problem, we should take a look at the context.

Why do apps need our data to function?

It all boils down to a personalized experience. The more data that is available, the better understanding of customers businesses have; therefore, they offer tailored and improved experiences for their user base.

However, some companies have been using so-called “dark UX patterns” to deceive individuals into sharing their personal data or to make it difficult for them to exercise their rights according to GDPR. For example, they may use confusing language or design tricks to hide important information, or they may make it difficult for users to opt out of data collection or to access and request their data.

These practices are a violation of the GDPR, and they can result in significant fines for the companies involved. In addition, they undermine the fundamental purpose of the GDPR, which is to give individuals control over their own personal data.

The problem:

Where do we draw the line between collecting data to tailor experiences and violating someone’s online privacy?

The devil is in the details. Many websites have adopted dark UX patterns to guide users to take actions that are not in their favor.

Here are some examples of dark UX patterns concerning privacy:

• Misleading or confusing language: Using language that is difficult to understand or that hides important information about data collection, use, and sharing. For example, using vague or technical terms, or burying important disclosures in long, legalistic privacy policies.

• Forced consent: Making it difficult or impossible for users to opt out of data collection or to control how their data is used. For example, requiring users to accept a long, complex privacy policy in order to use a service, or making it difficult to find the option to opt out of data sharing.

• Nudging: Using design or other techniques to encourage or pressure users into sharing more personal data than they might otherwise choose to. For example, using visual cues or social pressure to encourage users to share more information about themselves, or to connect with more people on a social network.

• Confusion: Making it difficult for users to understand what data is being collected about them, or to access their own data. For example, using confusing or difficult-to-use interfaces to manage privacy settings, or making it difficult to find or download a copy of the data that a company has collected about an individual.
• Ghost profiles: Creating profiles for users without their knowledge or consent. For example, using data from public sources or from other users to create a “shadow” profile for a user, without their explicit consent.

Possible solutions:

Here are some steps you can take to build an ethical, privacy-conscious app:

• Be transparent: Clearly disclose what data you are collecting, why you are collecting it, and how you will use it. Avoid using confusing or misleading language, and make it easy for users to find and understand your privacy policies and settings.
• Be selective: Only collect the minimum amount of data that you need to provide the services that users expect. Avoid collecting unnecessary or sensitive data, and consider whether there are alternative ways to achieve your goals without collecting personal data.
• Be respectful: Respect users’ choices and preferences about their data. If a user opts out of data collection or requests that you delete their data, make sure you comply with their request in a timely and complete manner.
• Be secure: Protect the data that you collect, and take appropriate measures to prevent unauthorized access or misuse. This includes implementing appropriate technical safeguards, such as encryption and secure servers, as well as implementing policies and procedures to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to personal data.
• Be accountable: Be prepared to take responsibility for your actions and to be held accountable for your handling of personal data. This includes being open to feedback and suggestions from users, and being willing to address any concerns or complaints that they may have.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is clear that privacy is an important concern for individuals and companies alike. The use of dark UX patterns to deceive or pressure users into sharing their personal data is a violation of the GDPR and other privacy laws, and it can result in significant fines for the companies involved. Instead, companies should strive to build ethical, privacy-conscious apps that are transparent, respectful, and secure. By doing so, they can earn the trust of their users and ensure that personal data is used in a responsible and appropriate manner.