Ever seen additional accessories, product warranties (that you don't need), or even a “priority shipment” option in your cart post-online purchase? Be aware of such dark patterns that may sneak up on you to pay for items that you never chose.
As the festive season approaches, many of us turn to online shopping to enjoy the convenience and discounts that various e-commerce websites provide. However, consumers should know that there is an increasingly common dark pattern in online retail shopping known as ‘basket sneaking’ that could easily catch you off guard.
A recent survey report by Local Circles, a research agency, stated that around 73 per cent of users of movie and event ticketing platforms say they have frequently experienced basket sneaking. Based on responses from 11,037 people, the report showed that 46 per cent of respondents said basket sneaking happens to them “very frequently”; 27 per cent experienced it “sometimes” while 10 per cent “rarely” came across it.
What is Basket Sneaking?
Imagine making an online purchase but a social contribution or other charge is added to your transaction or cart without consent. Such a deceptive practice where additional items or fees are subtly added to a shopper’s online cart is called ‘Basket Sneaking’. This could be small items such as additional accessories, product warranties (that you don't need), or even a “priority shipment” option.
Customers may often overlook these extra charges, assuming they are part of their purchase. While seemingly harmless, this can lead to overspending and unwanted purchases on your part.
Does Basket Sneaking Happen More During Festive Sales?
Since the festive season is synonymous with mega discounts and flash sales, consumers are prompted to rush their shopping to secure ‘premium’ deals. Online platforms take advantage of this urgency, often using basket sneaking to add low-cost, high-margin items to boost their profits.
During this time, retailers know that consumers are more focused on snagging deals and are less likely to notice such hidden additions. In the ‘Buy 2 Get 4 Free’ kind of deal, a retailer may sneak in extra goodies which can increase your costs at the time of billing.
Some retailers may justify these add-ons as necessary upsells or “value additions,” but customers often feel misled when they discover they have been charged for items they didn’t explicitly choose.
How To Avoid Basket Sneaking?
No need to stop yourself from taking advantage of festive deals, but a little caution can save you from handing out extra money. In order to avoid paying for unnecessary items sneaked into your basket:
1. Review Your Cart Before Check-out: Do not fall into the frenzy of early check-outs on your e-carts. Rather take your time to carefully evaluate all the items added to your cart and remove any extra item that you don’t need.
2. Opt Out Of Unwanted Add-ons: Many e-commerce websites may automatically check boxes for optional services like product insurance or quick shipping. If you don’t want such add-ons check and opt out before making the payment.
3. Watch For Subscription Traps: Some retailers may sneakily add subscriptions to their newsletters or premium services. Keep an eye out for free trial offers that automatically renew after a month unless they are cancelled.
4. Set A Budget And Stick To It: If you have set a tight budget before jumping on festive sales, chances are even sneaky retailers can’t derail you with extra items.
5. Check Post-Purchase Emails And Messages: Since you do fill out certain sections for billing updates such as your email and number right after the payment you would receive confirmation emails from the retailer. Make sure you thoroughly check the items you purchased and paid for.
While online shopping during the festive season can be a great way to secure bumper deals while saving money, it is important to be mindful of deceptive practices like basket sneaking. While retailers would continue to ramp up their marketing efforts, armed with caution and awareness you can be one step ahead of falling for any potential dark patterns.