For many years, companies have created websites that use "dark patterns." Now, it's becoming more and more common and the next generation barely notices these dark patterns or they aren't too bothered by them because they're unaware of the impact of these tactics on consumers. But what exactly are dark patterns and why are they super scary? Find out all about them and how you can avoid them when you're on your phone or computer by tuning into this week's episode of FinCap Friday below:

You can click here to access the Kahoot quiz and discussion prompt. If you're short on time, try our simplified No Tech version containing embedded questions right in the slide deck!

Be sure to join us for the NGPF Back to School Virtual Conference tomorrow (Saturday), August 23, 2025.Learn more and register here!

About the Author

Yanely Espinal

Born and raised by Dominican, immigrant parents in Brooklyn, Yanely is a proud product of NYC public schools. She graduated from Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School in 2007 before going on to receive her bachelor's degree at Brown University in 2011. As a Teach For America corps member, Yanely taught third and fourth grade in Canarsie, Brooklyn. She received her master's degree from Relay Graduate School of Education in 2013. She spends her spare time making YouTube videos about personal finance on her channel, MissBeHelpful. Yanely also loves to dance, sew, paint, listen to podcasts, and babysit her 10 nieces and nephews!