McAfee was reported to the Deceptive Design Tip Line over an advertisement that used confirmshaming. According to the report, when setting up a new computer an advertisement appeared promoting a service to protect against hackers, viruses and more, with “Get protection” highlighted and emphasised as the primary button. Underneath, a very small link read “Accept risk”, which the reporter said shamed them into continuing without buying the service.
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McAfee: Confirmshaming employed to pressure users into buying
“Upon setting up a new computer, this advertisement popped up showing a service to protect against dangerous hackers, viruses and more. “Get protection” was highlighted an emphasized as the primary button option. Very small, linked underneath read “Accept risk,” which shamed me to continue without buying their service.”
Disclaimer: examples in the Hall of Shame are generally drawn from public submissions and cited sources; they have not been independently verified and may contain inaccuracies. They are presented as illustrations of design patterns, not findings of fact, unlawful conduct, or intent.