Of course companies like Amazon and Times are out to maximize profits.

But calling the need to call to cancel a 'dark pattern' seems a bit exaggerated. We were not being fooled into thinking we quit when we didn't... It can still be done in minutes.

I see a big reason for this. They get you on the phone to see if they can reason you out of quiting... giving you a special offer or such. Of course it is to maximize profits, but I have trouble getting upset about this.

As long as I can cancel within that single call, and the call is not too long, I feel it has not crossed a line. Not for me. It does give them a chance to talk w. me to offer enough to keep me.

Tricking your users by misleading them into actions they don't intend would be crossing the line.

but this is a subjective assessment.