Microsoft’s “Dark Pattern” Drama: Edge Ads Masquerading as Security Alerts Spark Outrage
Microsoft’s push for its Edge browser through Defender prompts has raised eyebrows, with critics calling it a “dark pattern” that blurs the line between advice and ad. This tactic, making Edge look like a security recommendation, is seen as a sneaky way to boost its market share.
Hot Take:
Microsoft’s latest “security” measure is less about protecting your data and more about protecting their market share. It’s like convincing you to buy a house for its sturdy locks, only to find out they’re just trying to sell you the house. Nice try, Microsoft, but we see you.
Key Points:
– Microsoft is promoting Edge to Defender users through a prompt disguised as a security feature.
– The prompt is enabled by default and can be disabled via the Defender admin center.
– Critics argue this tactic resembles a “dark pattern,” manipulating users to choose Edge.
– Mozilla has previously criticized Microsoft’s use of similar tactics to boost Edge’s user base.
– Edge has a global market share of around five percent, trailing far behind Chrome’s 65 percent.