Article A — “A fast scan method that works”
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Dark Patterns—Spot Them, Stop Them
Audience: General consumers (teens → adults) · Duration: ~80 minutes self-paced · Goal: Teach learners to recognize dark patterns quickly and take the fastest effective counter-action with clean documentation.
- Post-assessment ≥ 80%
- Submit Risk Audit
- Badge: “Dark Pattern Spotter”
PRE-QUIZ — 10 items (diagnostic)
Notes: low-jargon, stimulus-focused. Read time ~6–8 minutes.
Complete all 10 items to continue.
Module 1 — Foundations (10–12 minutes)
Components: 1 short video (2:00), 1 article (~700 words)
Video 1 — “Why dark patterns exist” (2:00)
View transcript
0:00–0:20: Companies test every click. Small lifts in conversion or retention compound into real money.
0:20–0:40: Dark patterns are design choices that push you toward outcomes you didn’t intend. They cluster in sign-ups, checkouts, and cancellations.
0:40–1:10: Common incentives: reduce churn, sell add-ons, harvest data, block refunds. The patterns you’ll see are predictable because the incentives are predictable.
1:10–1:40: Your defense: name the tactic, choose an action (opt-out, cancel, escalate), and save proof.
1:40–2:00: In this course you’ll learn a fast scan method, standard counter-moves, and a lightweight documentation routine.
Module 2 — Pattern families (25–30 minutes)
Components: 1 explainer article (~1,100–1,300 words), 1 micro-video (1:30), 1 lightweight identification exercise
Micro-video 2 — “The eight families in 90 seconds” (1:30)
View transcript
Obstruction (extra steps or narrow windows).
Forced action (bundle unrelated consent).
Sneaking (pre-checked or auto-added items).
Interface interference (visual weight, button labelling).
Confirmshaming (guilt language).
Nagging (repeated prompts).
Social proofing (manufactured urgency/consensus).
Misdirection (visual focus away from the real choice).
Article B — “The field guide: what it is, how to spot it, what to do”
Identification Exercise (text-only, 10 items, 6–8 minutes)
Answer all items (instant feedback shown).
Module 3 — Counter-moves (20–25 minutes)
Components: 1 article (~1,200–1,400 words), 1 short “scripts” micro-video (1:40), optional text chat practice (3 prompts)
Micro-video 3 — “The three actions that fix most situations” (1:40)
View transcript
Opt-out cleanly (find and uncheck; use site settings; confirm by email).
Cancel decisively (use the required channel once; include the essentials; log proof).
Escalate with evidence (policy excerpt + your timestamped action + specific remedy requested).
Article C — “Counter-moves that actually work”
Module 3 opener:
You don’t have to argue for hours. Most situations fold when you use the right action at the right moment and keep a paper trail. Start with permission hygiene—turn off marketing, uncheck defaults, ask for confirmations. If you’re canceling, send a concise, dated request through the required channel once, then follow with email. When a refund stalls, quote their policy, attach your proof, give a clear deadline. If it still drags, escalate to the platform or payment rails with the same evidence. That rhythm closes loops without drama.
“Script Drills” (optional)
- You see a “pause” trap. Draft two sentences rejecting it and asking for a hard cancel.
- You returned an item; merchant says “refund pending.” Draft the exact one-paragraph follow-up quoting policy.
- Agent refuses to email confirmation. Draft the post-call email that documents the call.
Module 4 — Documentation & evidence (10–12 minutes)
Components: 1 article (~800–1,000 words), guided form that generates the “Risk Audit” (required for certificate)
Article D — “Proof beats opinions: a minimal evidence routine”
Risk Audit (guided form, ~5–7 minutes)
POST-QUIZ — scenario-rich assessment
Notes: each item tests judgment, sequencing, or evidence quality; explanations shown after submit.
Score ≥ 80% to unlock certificate.
Badge & Certificate
You’ve met all completion criteria. Download your PDF certificate and badge image.
Dark Pattern Spotter
Issued by Fynoptic
