Nudges are subtle interventions designed to influence user behavior without restricting choice. Responsible gambling messages (RGMs) exemplify such nudges by encouraging safer decision-making in gambling environments. Prior research has examined how pop-up messages influence gambling behavior in experimental settings and has explored the design of effective slogan messages. However, little is known about how different types of RGMs shape users’ real-world gambling behavior and safety. To address this gap, we apply a nudging perspective to examine how RGMs support gambling safety throughout gamblers’ decision-making journey. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 22 gamblers and found that participants were generally aware of RGMs, yet some misunderstood their intended purpose. Participants perceived the safety impact of RGMs as reflected in both attitudinal and behavioral dimensions. We further discuss users’ message reception practices and the effectiveness of RGMs as nudges, and conclude with design implications for promoting gambling safety.

Stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency pegged to another asset to maintain a stable price, have become an important part of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Prior studies have primarily focused on examining the security of stablecoins from technical and theoretical perspectives, with limited investigation into users' risk perceptions and security behaviors in stablecoin practices. To address this research gap, we conducted a mixed-method study that included constructing a stablecoin interaction framework based on the literature, which informed the design of our interview protocol, semi-structured interviews (n=21), and Reddit data analysis (9,326 posts). We found that participants see stable value and regulatory compliance as key security advantages of stablecoins over other cryptocurrencies. However, participants also raised concerns about centralization risks in fiat-backed stablecoins, perceived challenges in crypto-backed stablecoins due to limited reliance on fully automated execution, and confusion regarding the complex mechanisms of algorithmic stablecoins. We proposed improving user education and optimizing mechanisms to address these concerns and promote the safer use of stablecoins.

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are transforming the digital art by allowing artists to sell unique, one-of-a-kind digital artwork that is verified on the blockchain. Although NFTs have attracted much attention from academia and industry, little is known about this innovative art practice. In this work, we focus on how NFT artists understand their art creation process, interact with NFT marketplaces, and face challenges in their NFT practices. We conducted a mixed-method study, including interviews with 19 artists and an analysis of market transactions on OpenSea and SuperRare. We found that serialization and Web3 concepts are significant features in NFT artwork creations, and artists utilize artificial intelligence and smart contracts to create artworks incorporating these features. Artists perceived that blockchain features like transparency, openness, and authentication strongly influenced their NFT trading experiences, and they also encountered challenges such as determining artwork value, rights ownership, and addressing technical issues in the creation process.