Imposing the fear of missing out

Imposing the fear of missing out (FOMO) is a deceptive pattern that exploits users' anxiety about missing out on something valuable or limited. This tactic creates a sense of urgency, pushing users to make quick decisions without fully considering their options. For example, an e-commerce site might display a countdown timer on a product page, falsely indicating that a special discount will expire in a few minutes. Users feel pressured to make a purchase quickly to avoid missing the deal, even if they are not entirely sure about the product.

These FOMO tactics can lead to regretful purchases and diminished trust. Ethical design should focus on providing accurate information and allowing users to make decisions at their own pace, without artificial pressure.