India Cracks Down on Deceptive E-Commerce Practices: Platforms Ordered to Self-Audit Dark Patterns

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has directed all e-commerce platforms to conduct self-audits within three months to identify and eliminate "dark patterns", deceptive design tactics that mislead consumers into unintended actions. The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen consumer protection in the digital economy.

 

The advisory mandates platforms to examine their interfaces for practices that undermine consumer choice or constitute unfair trade practices. Companies must submit self-declarations confirming compliance, ensuring a fairer digital marketplace. The CCPA has already issued notices to violators, though specific names were not disclosed.

 

Dark patterns include false urgency alerts, hidden costs, subscription traps, and disguised advertisements. A Joint Working Group has been formed to monitor violations and suggest awareness programs. The government had previously identified 13 deceptive practices in its 2023 guidelines, including basket sneaking, confirm shaming, bait-and-switch tactics, and drip pricing.

 

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Source: MSN | The Hindu | Moneycontrol