Dark patterns are manipulative techniques used in user interfaces to trick or deceive users into making unintended choices or taking actions they would not have otherwise taken in e-commerce settings. These patterns exploit cognitive biases and behavioral psychology to guide users towards actions that benefit the business rather than the user. In response to the negative impact of dark patterns on users, organizations and regulatory bodies are developing guidelines to address them. These guidelines aim to ensure transparency, fairness, and user empowerment in e-commerce interactions. Some key guidelines being planned include: 1. Clear and conspicuous disclosure: Dark patterns often rely on hiding important information or making it difficult to find. The guidelines will require businesses to provide clear and easy-to-understand disclosures regarding pricing, subscription terms, cancellation policies, and any other relevant information. 2. Unambiguous user consent: Dark patterns frequently manipulate users into unintentionally providing consent or making purchases. The guidelines will emphasize the need for businesses to obtain explicit and informed consent from users, ensuring that users fully understand the implications of their actions. 3. Opt-in rather than opt-out: Many dark patterns exploit automatic opt-ins or pre-selected options to push users towards unintended choices. The guidelines will encourage businesses to adopt an opt-in approach, allowing users to actively select their preferences rather than having to opt out of unwanted features or actions. 4. User-friendly interfaces: The guidelines will stress the importance of user-centered design, promoting intuitive interfaces that prioritize user understanding and control. This might involve providing clear navigation, easily accessible settings, and minimizing distractions that might push users towards unintended actions. By implementing these guidelines, organizations aim to foster ethical and user-friendly e-commerce experiences, promoting trust, transparency, and respect for users' autonomy.