HOPPER PAYS $35M FOR DECEPTIVE FEE PRACTICES

The FTC found that Hopper employed "dark patterns"—interface designs meant to obscure information—to charge hidden fees that users did not expect or authorize. The settlement requires Hopper to refund affected consumers and prohibits the company from using deceptive practices in the future. Dark patterns are manipulative design techniques that trick users into taking actions against their interests. The FTC has increasingly targeted companies using such tactics to deceive consumers about pricing, subscriptions, and service terms. Hopper, which helps travelers compare flight and hotel prices, is among several tech platforms facing regulatory scrutiny over hidden charges. The $35 million settlement reflects growing enforcement action against companies that obscure true costs from consumers. The case underscores the FTC's focus on transparency in digital commerce, particularly around fees that materially affect purchasing decisions.