Calif. Adopts Privacy Rules Banning 'Dark Patterns'

California banned the use of “dark patterns” and related deceptive online navigation methods, Attorney General Xavier Becerra (D) announced, with new regulations under the California Consumer Privacy Act. California’s Office of Administrative Law approved the additional regulations, giving “new tools” for protecting data privacy, effective Monday. Regulations include “an eye-catching Privacy Options icon that guides consumers to where they can opt-out of the sale of their personal information,” he said. The dark patterns provision “prohibits companies from burdening consumers with confusing language or unnecessary steps such as forcing them to click through multiple screens or listen to reasons why they shouldn’t opt out.”