Are you sure you've saved it?

When creating an account on Mullvad VPN, you need to save your account number. To nudge you into actually saving it, you need to tick a box that blurs the number before you can proceed.

Behind this Bite

i.e., the process of checking that box, and then seeing the number blur out, is what reminds you that it’s probably important. It’s a visual cue.

AI insights

Insights

Intentional Friction is a UX tactic that adds small steps to make users pause and think. Here, blurring the account number after checking the box nudges users to actually save it.
Cognitive Load is the working memory needed to complete a task. By forcing users to interact with the checkbox, Mullvad makes the step feel more important, so users focus on saving the number.
Keep context visible to maintain user focus and reduce confusion means critical info should be shown at the moment of action. Mullvad blurs the number only after confirmation, so users must act before losing access.
Airbnb uses a similar pattern by adding a warning inside an animation when users need to confirm bank details. Both examples use visual cues to highlight critical steps and reduce mistakes.
Monzo uses a FaceID toggle at payment to prompt setup at the exact right moment. Both Monzo and Mullvad show how timing and placement of prompts can drive better user action and reduce future friction.