Canada: Issued Privacy Commissioner findings following inquiry into the use of deceptive design to influence privacy choices

On 9 July 2024, the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, in collaboration with 25 privacy enforcement authorities, announced the findings from a global privacy inquiry conducted earlier in the year. During the inquiry, over 1’000 websites and mobile apps' interface and setting designs were assessed, determining that deceptive design patterns are widespread, particularly on platforms aimed at children. The inquiry identified that 97% of the examined digital platforms employed one or more deceptive design patterns, potentially compromising user privacy. The report noted the necessity for digital platforms to adopt privacy-friendly designs, including straightforward privacy information and default settings that protect user data. The inquiry is part of the annual efforts led by the Global Privacy Enforcement Network (GPEN), which aims to enhance online privacy protections and encourage transparency in the design of digital services.