Government Gives E-Commerce Firms 3 Months to Eliminate Dark Patterns

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has directed e-commerce platforms to stop using “deceptive and unfair” dark patterns. The advisory issued by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) gives companies three months to carry out self-audits and ensure compliance. 

This move is part of a broader government initiative to curb misleading design tactics and protect digital consumers. Platforms have also been encouraged to submit self-declarations to build a fair and transparent digital ecosystem.

Government Action and Industry Response

"All e-commerce platforms have been advised to conduct self-audits to identify dark patterns, within 3 months of the issue of the advisory”. The Ministry added that a Joint Working Group (JWG) has been set up with representatives from ministries, regulators, consumer groups, and law universities to identify violations and promote awareness.

“The JWG shall also suggest appropriate awareness programmes for creating awareness amongst the consumers,” the Ministry stated. In a briefing, Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare said, “These are algorithmic manipulations,” noting that CCPA had issued 401 notices, including 11 related to dark patterns. Four ride-hailing platforms were among those served with notices.

Stakeholder Meeting and Identified Patterns

In a meeting held in late May, Consumer Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi met with over 50 platforms, industry bodies like Nasscom, and consumer groups. 13 dark patterns were identified, including False Urgency, Basket Sneaking, Hidden Costs, Disguised Ads, Confirm Shaming, Interface Interference, Forced Action, Trick Questions, and Subscription Traps.

Joshi said platforms had been “sensitised and cautioned,” and also told that “third-party sellers also have to comply.” Platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, Zomato, MakeMyTrip, Ola Electric, Google, Meta, and Paytm were present. The government launched 3 digital tools: Jagriti App, Jago Grahak Jago App, and a Jagriti Dashboard for consumer support.

Read More: India's Quick Commerce TAM Expected to Reach $57 Billion by 2030!

Conclusion

With a firm deadline, official oversight, and digital tools in place, the government is taking strong steps to remove dark patterns from India’s online commerce sector. Platforms must now align with the law and help create a transparent digital experience for users.

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