Responsible research
These principles govern how the Pot pilot is designed and run. They exist to protect participants and to keep the study honest, proportionate, and safe.
Pot is a research study with simulated money only. These principles apply to how we collect data, design the experience, and care for the people taking part.
We collect only what the research needs — in-app interactions and an age range to confirm eligibility. We deliberately do not collect real names, bank details, or any real financial data while money is simulated.
Taking part is optional and clearly explained before you join. Consent to the research is separate from agreeing to the terms, is recorded with its date and version, and can be withdrawn at any time.
The design avoids dark patterns: no pressure to spend, no loss framing on real money (there is none), and no mechanic that pushes risky behaviour. Saving is the goal the product is built around.
No real money can be lost, won, or deposited. The weekly draw is provably fair — its outcome is committed in advance and independently verifiable — and cosmetic status never affects entries or odds.
What the study measures, what is collected, and who is responsible are published here and on the research page. The simulated-money basis is stated plainly wherever it matters.
Because the format borrows game-like elements, we signpost free gambling-harm and money-guidance services on these pages, and keep the no-real-money basis prominent throughout.
The pilot is conducted under academic supervision and has been through ethical review as part of a FinTech MSc. The supervisor name and ethics reference number are being confirmed and will be published on the research page. Questions about the conduct of the research can be sent to hello@wyndworks.com.
Pot uses no real money, but if real-world gambling or money worries affect you, free and confidential help is available.