Reddit.com was reported to the Deceptive Design Tip Line over how it treats comments on mobile devices. According to the report, when the site detects a mobile device it will not let the user see the deeper levels of nested replies and comments on a post unless they log in or use the Reddit mobile app. The reporter noted that on desktop the full nested replies can be viewed anonymously without logging in, and described the mobile behaviour as a loss of privacy and a trick by comparison.
‹ All examples Reddit.com
Reddit.com: Forces login/app to see all comments on mobile
“On mobile devices Reddit.com detects that you are using a mobile device and will not let you see all the deeper levels of nested replies/comments to a post UNLESS you login or use the a mobile Reddit app installed your phone. This is a dark pattern because on Desktop you can see all the nested levels of replies/comments anonymously without logging in. This is a loss of privacy and and a trick compared to the Desktop use of the site.”
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.