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The Transaction Test

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  • Bogliacino, Francesco

    (Universidad Nacional de Colombia)

  • Leonardo, Pejsachowicz
  • Liva, Giovanni
  • Lupiáñez-Villanueva, Francisco

Abstract

This article introduces the transaction test, a novel experimental method to detect whether deceptive designs (known as dark patterns) induce choices that are inconsistent with individual preferences. In a highly powered online experiment, we assess three dark patterns and one transparency-based remedy in decisions involving data protection. Compared to a placebo condition, dark patterns increase choice inconsistency by an effect in the range of 11-31% of the outcome in the control, depending on experimental conditions. The transparency-based remedy fails to mitigate these effects. We assess the robustness of the methodology and replicate the main findings in a controlled lab experiment. Our findings demonstrate how the transaction test, by providing an empirical assessment of the legal concept of unfairness, offers a flexible tool for the regulation of dark patterns and other commercial practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Bogliacino, Francesco & Leonardo, Pejsachowicz & Liva, Giovanni & Lupiáñez-Villanueva, Francisco, 2023. "The Transaction Test," SocArXiv sqt3j_v1, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:socarx:sqt3j_v1
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/sqt3j_v1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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