Social Media Ban for Under-16s, Browser Choice Alliance, and FTC Battles Over Consumer Rights

Introduction:

Welcome to Fair Monday! We know Mondays can be a bit rough, so we created Fair Monday to bring you weekly insights and resources on dark patterns and digital fairness. Each Monday, we share updates on the latest developments, helping you stay informed and empowered to create a fairer, more transparent digital space.

This Week's Highlights:

1. Australia Proposes Social Media Ban for Children Under 16
   On November 7, 2024, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese proposed banning children under 16 from accessing social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The policy focuses on improving youth mental health through:
   ➡ Mandatory age verification for platforms.
   ➡ Parental consent mechanisms.
   While the proposal faces criticism from over 140 experts who warn it could limit access to valuable online resources, Meta has suggested alternatives, such as app store age checks.
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2. South Africa Strengthens Consumer Rights with CPA Updates
   South Africa plans to amend its Consumer Protection Act to:
   ➡ Introduce a national opt-out registry.
   ➡ Impose stricter compliance requirements on marketers.
   ➡ Penalize deceptive practices, including dark patterns.
   These changes aim to enhance consumer control, improve transparency, and curb exploitative marketing practices.
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3. Browser Choice Alliance Challenges Microsoft Over Dark Patterns
   On November 26, 2024, the Browser Choice Alliance, comprising major developers like Chrome, Opera, and Vivaldi, accused Microsoft of:
   ➡ Using dark patterns to favor Edge on Windows.
   ➡ Blocking rival browsers and resetting defaults during updates.
   The Alliance urged the EU to label Edge a “gatekeeper” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) to ensure fair competition.
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4. FTC Investigates Uber One Over Consumer Rights Violations
   The FTC is investigating Uber for dark patterns in its Uber One subscription service. Allegations include:
   ➡ Problematic enrollment processes leading to accidental sign-ups.
   ➡ Complex and confusing cancellation procedures.
   In November 2024, the FTC proposed a settlement with significant penalties, marking a potential shift in how subscription services are regulated.
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5. FTC vs. Amazon: A Dark Patterns Battle Over Prime Subscriptions
   A US federal judge ruled that the FTC’s case against Amazon could proceed. The case alleges:
   ➡ Use of dark patterns to auto-renew Prime subscriptions.
   ➡ Complicated cancellation processes designed to deter users.
   The ruling highlights the importance of clear disclosures and informed consent. If proven, the case could have far-reaching consequences for Amazon and its executives.

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Conclusion:

From Australia’s proposal to protect children from social media to global battles against dark patterns by Uber and Amazon, these updates underline the critical need for fairness, transparency, and accountability in the digital space. At Fairpatterns, we’re committed to helping organizations align with ethical practices and regulations, ensuring a more equitable online environment.

Let’s work together to create a fairer digital world. Have a fantastic week with Fair Monday!