TechnologyMisleading designs trick users into subscriptions, big purchasesIn Japan, 37.5% report encountering 'dark patterns' on online shopping sites in recent months. (Photo by Kosaku Mimura)KENSUKE MAEDAAugust 22, 2026 05:49 JSTTOKYO -- Japanese authorities will propose rules targeting websites with "dark pattern" interfaces that deceptively steer consumers toward harmful clicks, it was learned Friday.
Japan to crack down on deceptive 'dark pattern' websites
Misleading designs trick users into subscriptions, big purchases
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