Microsoft Edge uses confusing pop-ups to convince you to share Chrome data

In questionable use dark patternMicrosoft takes advantage of user inattention to copy browsing data from other browsers. Added to Microsoft Edge, function uses an unethical pop-up to persuade the consumer.

The report was shared threshold It explains that Microsoft Edge opens automatically with Windows even without authorization. In addition to interrupting the startup flow, the browser also featured a special pop-up that promised to “Enhance your browsing experience with Copilot in Microsoft Edge.”

However, the problem is with the option checked by default in this window This, if left as is, would authorize Microsoft Edge to routinely import user data from other browsers.

Like other methods dark pattern (Portuguese for “vague patterns”), the most noticeable button is the blue “Confirm and continue” button. The data sharing checkbox is greyed out, can be confused with the background of the popup.

What is a dark pattern?

Dark patterns are interface elements that use positioning, colors, flashy icons, and other artificial obstructions to manipulate the user into making a decision they probably wouldn’t have made if the information had been presented more clearly. It’s a very old strategy and is widely used on the Internet.

Microsoft acknowledged the notification

to the website threshold, Microsoft confirms pop-up notification is real. “This is a notification that gives people the chance to import data from other browsers,” a company spokesperson said. “There is an option to turn it off,” he continued.

Actually, Is it possible to uncheck the checkbox and continue browsing without sharing data with Microsoft Edge. However, the intrusive launch and the odd use of colors for the checkbox and check buttons are questionable to say the least.

Nevertheless, It’s not new for Microsoft to use different strategies to persuade users Using Microsoft Edge. For example, when Windows 11 was released, it was very difficult to change the default browser.