Most Indian Apps Use Deceptive Designs That Mislead Users, Study Finds
Pune, 2nd August 2024: A recent study by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has revealed that most Indian apps use deceptive design and layout practices that mislead users and influence their decisions. The study examined the top 53 apps and found that 52 of them had misleading user interfaces (UI) and user experiences (UX). From shopping to ordering food, these deceptive designs compel users to perform actions they might not intend, affecting their overall experience and decision-making process.
The study, conducted in collaboration with design firm Parallel HQ, highlights that these apps have been downloaded over 21 billion times. An official statement noted that the deceptive design patterns in these apps include elements that can harm users’ privacy, interface interference, and drip pricing. These practices are not just confined to a specific category of apps but are prevalent across various types, including health, travel booking, and e-commerce apps.
Health-related apps were found to be the most deceptive, with 79 percent having privacy-related issues and 45 percent displaying interface interference. E-commerce apps also pose significant problems, as users often find it difficult to remove their accounts once created. The study underscores that these misleading designs lead to users making decisions they would typically avoid, such as unnecessary purchases or sharing personal information.
Interestingly, gaming and streaming service apps showed fewer deceptive patterns compared to other categories. This disparity suggests that while some sectors prioritize user experience and transparency, others exploit design practices to manipulate user behavior.
The ASCI study aims to bring attention to these issues and push for stricter regulations and better design practices in the app development industry. By addressing these deceptive practices, the industry can enhance user trust and ensure that apps serve their intended purpose without misleading users. The findings of this study call for immediate action to protect users and promote ethical design standards in the rapidly growing app ecosystem.
