Ya, it would probably be a type of dark pattern.

I actually think that’s not a bad phrase at all depending on the context. I wouldn’t use it if it’s about signing up for a commercial website account unless you’re a consultant, but if you’re talking about signing up for government services, I think it’s perfect.

Governments know that administrative burdens increase participation costs. Government agencies and administrators that are trying to reduce utilization of a program without going through the burden or optics of changing a law will make every effort to make it harder to get. Imagine if you could sign up for SNAP, welfare, healthcare, and register to vote with one click. I think we’d find program utilization would soar.

What if someone undeserving takes advantage of the system? Well, that’s why universal programs can be more efficient. There’s no qualifying for a program because it’s universal. Remove tuition from public colleges and universities - you’ve eliminated the administrative burden of navigating aid programs and scholarships and opened up higher education.

Definitely not the worst phrase.

Makes me think of that joke where you need to fill out three different forms on the third floor to get in line to fill out the one real form.