The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has taken a strong stance against deceptive online practices, directing all e-commerce platforms in India to conduct self-audits within three months to detect and eliminate dark patterns from their websites and apps.
What Are Dark Patterns?
Dark patterns are sneaky design tricks used by online platforms to mislead users into making choices that benefit the business, often at the consumer’s expense. These include tactics like:
- Creating fake urgency (e.g., “Only 1 left!”)
- Adding hidden costs at checkout
- Forcing users into unwanted subscriptions
- Hiding key information or making it hard to cancel services
- Disguised advertisements that look like normal content
Why the Crackdown?
With online shopping booming across India, complaints about manipulative e-commerce practices have surged. Consumers have flagged issues such as:
- Sudden price hikes based on device type
- Hidden charges in bill summaries
- Unclear handling or small cart fees
These practices not only hurt consumers financially but also erode trust in digital marketplaces.
Government’s Action Plan
The CCPA’s advisory, issued recently, gives all e-commerce platforms a three-month deadline to:
- Conduct internal audits to identify and remove dark patterns
- Submit self-declarations confirming compliance with guidelines
- Avoid any deceptive design features that could mislead or exploit users
The government has also set up a Joint Working Group (JWG) with representatives from ministries, regulators, consumer groups, and law universities. This group will monitor violations and suggest awareness programmes for consumers.
Guidelines and Penalties
The Department of Consumer Affairs notified specific guidelines listing 13 types of dark patterns, including:
- Basket sneaking
- Confirm shaming
- Subscription traps
- Drip pricing
- Bait and switch tactics
Non-compliance can invite strict penalties under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, including heavy fines and even imprisonment.
Building Trust in Digital India
The CCPA has already sent notices to several e-commerce companies found violating these guidelines, though names haven’t been disclosed yet. Platforms are encouraged to provide self-declarations after their audits, helping build a fair digital ecosystem and restoring consumer faith.
What Lies Ahead?
India’s digital economy is growing fast. The government’s move aims to ensure that online shopping remains safe, fair, and transparent for every Indian. With increased scrutiny and consumer awareness, the days of manipulative online tricks may soon be numbered.