"Only Wanted a Free Trial"... Consultations Rise Over Suspected 'Dark Pattern' Damages

Economy 365

Consultations regarding suspected "dark pattern" damages—such as automatic payments kicking in after a free trial or difficulties in canceling subscriptions—are on the rise.

Dark patterns refer to online practices that induce consumer illusions or carelessness to drive unintended purchases.

From the end of May 2022 to September 16, 2026, a total of 50 consultations were received by the Online Damage 365 Center.

The number has grown from 3 in 2022 and 4 in 2023 to 13 in 2024 and 15 last year, with another 15 cases received this year.

Reported cases included subscription fees being automatically charged after a free trial ended, subscription fees being repeatedly billed without the user's knowledge, and cancellation buttons being difficult to find.

However, the center stated that it is difficult to confirm whether a case constitutes an actual dark pattern based solely on the consultation details.

*This article was produced with AI audio.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.