Consumer Advocate: Starbucks App Keeps Users Trapped in Shaken Espresso Vicious Cycle

The Allegations: Starbucks’ Mobile App Traps Users with “Dark Patterns”

A consumer protection group has filed a complaint with Washington’s Attorney General, alleging that Starbucks’ mobile app uses “dark patterns” to trap users in a cycle of beverage buying. The group, called the Washington Consumer Protection Coalition, claims that the Starbucks app employs unfair and deceptive tactics to make low funds on a Starbucks Card unusable. According to the coalition, this forces users to add more money to their accounts or risk losing the remaining balance.