Journal article 106 views 6 downloads
Dark patterns in online gambling: A scoping review and classification of deceptive design practices
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Martyn Quigley ,
Simon Dymond
Journal of Behavioral Addictions
Swansea University Authors:
Jack McGarrigle, JESSICA SMITH, Joe Griffiths, Jamie Torrance , Martyn Quigley , Simon Dymond
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DOI (Published version): 10.1556/2006.2025.00096
Abstract
Background and aims: Dark patterns are online platform design features that influence consumer behaviour to the advantage of the interface designer. In online gambling, such designs may exacerbate gambling-related harms, particularly among vulnerable consumers. This study aims to provide the first s...
| Published in: | Journal of Behavioral Addictions |
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| ISSN: | 2062-5871 2063-5303 |
| Published: |
Akademiai Kiado Zrt.
2026
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| Online Access: |
Check full text
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa71152 |
| Abstract: |
Background and aims: Dark patterns are online platform design features that influence consumer behaviour to the advantage of the interface designer. In online gambling, such designs may exacerbate gambling-related harms, particularly among vulnerable consumers. This study aims to provide the first scoping review of dark patterns in online gambling. Methods: Following established scoping review frameworks, we systematically searched databases and grey literature using terms related to dark patterns and online gambling. The review protocol was preregistered. Results: Included articles (n = 16) addressed a variety of gambling-related dark patterns: hidden gambling management tools, inducements with complex conditions, minimum balances required to withdraw funds, unnecessary frictions involved in closing an account, high defaults in stake, deposit, reality check and deposit limit settings, and urgency-based gambling prompts. To address inconsistent terminology across studies, we synthesised existing literature by mapping identified dark patterns to a transdisciplinary framework, providing greater conceptual clarity and direction for future research. Discussions and conclusions: The potential for harm from dark patterns is evident, yet evidence on behavioural impacts is limited, hindered by restricted access to proprietary gambling operator data. Research in this area is sparse and fragmented, often using inconsistent terminology. Future studies should empirically investigate the influence of dark patterns on consumer behaviour, especially among vulnerable populations, and evaluate safer design alternatives. We recommend mandating gambling operators to collaborate with researchers to assess platform safety, and shifting the burden of proof onto operators to demonstrate that their platforms prioritise consumer safety and foster responsible gambling environments. |
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| Item Description: |
Review Article |
| Keywords: |
dark patterns; dark nudges; sludge; gambling; platform design; consumer protection |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Funders: |
ESRC (ES/Y001818/1); The lead author is funded by a Welsh Graduate School for the Social Sciences (WGSSS) scholarship, through the UK Research and Innovation Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) under grant number PSF1089-102. |