Building Apps for Good: The Ethics of App Development

Imagine downloading an app that promises health and healing, only to discover it was built on deception. This was the reality behind The Whole Pantry, created by Australian influencer Belle Gibson. She claimed to have cured her cancer through diet, using this narrative to inspire hope and build a wellness empire. But it was all a lie—she never had cancer.

When the truth emerged, trust in her app and brand crumbled. Now exposed in Netflix’s documentary Apple Cider Vinegar, her rise and fall are a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with app development.

This scandal isn’t just about one person’s deception—it’s a wake-up call for anyone building digital products. In a world where apps shape how we live, work, and connect, ethical practices are non-negotiable. Every design choice, data policy, and marketing message carries ethical implications.

This article provides an overview of ethical app development, offering insights into what makes an app ethical and how you can ensure your app meets these standards.

What is Ethical App Development and Why Does It Matter?

Ethical app development means creating digital products with integrity, transparency, and user welfare at the core. It’s about respecting users’ rights, safeguarding privacy, and providing accurate information. By prioritising ethical practices, apps build trust, enhance user experiences, and protect brand reputation. In a world where digital interactions shape everyday life, ethical apps set the standard for trust and long-term success.

Unethical Practices vs. Ethical Alternatives

To build trustworthy apps, it’s essential to recognise unethical practices and adopt ethical alternatives. Here’s how to navigate the most common challenges:

1. Manipulative Design and Dark Patterns

Unethical Practice
Using deceptive UX design tactics, such as hidden opt-outs or misleading notifications, to manipulate users into unintended actions. These “dark patterns” exploit cognitive biases, tricking users into subscribing to services or sharing personal information.

Ethical Alternative
Design transparent, user-centric interfaces. Provide clear choices, honest messaging, and easy opt-out options. Ethical design respects user autonomy and decision-making.

Example:

• Don’t Do This: Using confusing language like “Don’t not unsubscribe” to trick users.

• Instead, Do This: Use clear, straightforward language like “Unsubscribe” or “Opt Out,” ensuring users fully understand their choices.

2. Excessive Data Collection and Privacy Invasion

Unethical Practice
Collecting unnecessary personal data or tracking user activity without consent. This includes requesting excessive permissions unrelated to app functionality, leading to privacy violations.

Ethical Alternative
Implement privacy-by-design principles. Collect only essential data, be transparent about its usage, and ensure informed consent. Prioritise user privacy and data security with robust encryption and clear consent options.

Example:

• Don’t Do This: Requesting access to contacts or location data without a clear explanation of its relevance.

• Instead, Do This: Clearly explain why specific data is needed and how it enhances the user experience. Offer alternatives where possible.

3. False Information and Unverified Claims

Unethical Practice
Sharing misleading or unverified information, including exaggerated claims, unsupported testimonials, or presenting opinions as facts. This damages trust, invites legal issues, and harms brand integrity. The Whole Pantry app is a powerful example—Belle Gibson built credibility on a fabricated cancer survival story, even partnering with Apple’s App Store, where her app was showcased as a flagship wellness product. When the truth emerged, Apple swiftly removed the app, highlighting the consequences of presenting unverified information as truth.

Ethical Alternative
Provide accurate, evidence-based information backed by credible sources. Use transparent citations and disclaimers where necessary. Whether sharing health tips, educational content, or lifestyle advice, ensure all claims are well-supported. This builds trust, avoids legal risks, and empowers users to make informed decisions.

Example:

• Don’t Do This: Claiming “This method cures cancer” without credible evidence.

• Instead, Do This: Use transparent language and reliable sources, such as “Studies suggest this method may be effective, but results vary. Consult your doctor for personalised advice.”

  Apple Cider Vinegar | Official Trailer | Netflix

4. Exclusionary Design and Accessibility Issues

Unethical Practice
Ignoring accessibility standards, leading to digital exclusion for people with disabilities. This includes poor colour contrasts, small font sizes, or lack of screen reader compatibility.

Ethical Alternative
Design for inclusivity and accessibility from the start. Incorporate features like adjustable text sizes, screen reader compatibility, and customisable user interfaces. Follow accessibility guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), to ensure usability for all users.

Example:

• Don’t Do This: Using colour as the only visual indicator for critical actions or information.

• Instead, Do This: Pair colour with text labels or icons to ensure clarity for users with visual impairments.

5. Social Manipulation and Psychological Impact

Unethical Practice
Exploiting psychological triggers through manipulative notifications, fear of missing out (FOMO) tactics, or fear-based marketing. This includes apps that use excessive notifications to induce compulsive usage or create a false sense of urgency, pressuring users into actions they may not intend.

Ethical Alternative
Prioritise positive user experiences by avoiding manipulative practices. Use honest notifications and transparent messaging that genuinely add value. Focus on empowering users rather than exploiting vulnerabilities.

Example:

• Don’t Do This: Sending push notifications like “Hurry! Your account will expire soon!” when it’s not true.

• Instead, Do This: Provide genuine, helpful notifications that add value, such as reminders for upcoming events or important updates.

How to Build an Ethical App

Navigating ethical challenges in app development can be complex, but you don’t need to be an expert to get it right. The key is to stay aware of potential pitfalls and prioritise user welfare at every step.

Partnering with an experienced app development agency can help you navigate these challenges. Ethical agencies like DreamWalk understand the importance of data privacy, transparent user experiences, and building trust. With the right guidance, you can make informed decisions that lead to ethical and successful digital products.

Final Thoughts: Building Apps for Good

The Belle Gibson scandal serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with creating digital products. In an age where apps influence how we live, learn, and connect, businesses and developers have the power to shape society—for better or worse.

Ethical app development isn’t just about avoiding scandals or legal issues; it’s about creating experiences that users can trust and rely on. It’s about respecting user autonomy, protecting privacy, and building platforms that empower rather than exploit.

The choices you make today will define your brand tomorrow. By choosing transparency, inclusivity, and integrity, you’re not just building an app—you’re building a legacy. Whether you’re a startup founder or a product manager, the opportunity to do good is in your hands.

Let’s move beyond profit-driven design and build apps that truly make a difference. The future of ethical tech starts with you.

DreamWalk is an award-winning Australian app development company. We pride ourselves on our ethical and transparent app development process and operate by our unique Ethical App Development Charter. To learn more about us and the work we do, head to www.dreamwalk.com.au.